Creating a CV

A CV (also known as a Curriculum Vitae, or résumé), is a written overview of your skills, education, and previous experience. It should form a key part of your job search, putting all of your skills, experience, and qualifications in one place for a prospective employer to see. A well-written CV could be the difference between getting an interview and not being considered for the role.

Firstly, decide which type of CV you will use:

Chronological CV 

A chronological CV is the most common form and is best for people who have been in continuous employment and wish to show evidence of their career progression.

Skills-based CV 

A skills-based CV can be useful if you have gaps in your employment history and wish to add emphasis on personal qualities. Bear in mind that employers will naturally question you about any breaks in your career at interview so you will need to have an explanation ready.

 

In both cases, remember to include the following information:

  • Contact details
  • Objective/Personal summary
  • Education & Qualifications
  • Skills/areas of expertise
  • Key achievements
  • Core duties/responsibilities
  • Work history and/or experience and voluntary work
  • Activities and interests out of work

 

The CV should be no longer than two pages.

Your CV should tell prospective employers what you can do and your CPD profile should prove that you can.

The following sample resumes are there to give you some examples of possible CV layouts; they are not a compulsory format. 

Please feel free to customise or edit them as required for your job application.

Skills C.V

Chronological C.V