10 CV Factors You
Shouldn’t Forget
If time spent writing your CV is really just
time spent staring at a blank screen, you’re not alone, we’ve been there
too.
There are no two ways about it – condensing all of
your skills and experience into one slick document can be
challenging. We aren’t born knowing how to write a great CV, so it’s
up to you to find out for yourself how to get the basics right. From font
size and format to photos and filling in the gaps, there is a certain
etiquette that should rarely be broken. Recruiters and
employers receive constant streams of applications – don’t let a
basic mistake send yours straight to the bottom of the pack.
1.
How long should a CV be?
When it comes to length, try to think of your CV as
a tasty appetizer that will get people coming back for more. It should be
around 2 pages long to ensure that you get your message
across quickly, without dragging on like an old encyclopedia,
boring employers and recruiters.
If you feel your experience is as good as gold
(and listing it all will make you a shoe-in for the job), don’t worry too much
about going over. Just be sure to keep it at 3 pages or less.
2.
What do employers look for in a CV?
They want someone who has the right skills and
knowledge to do the job at hand, so these need to come across in your CV.
If you have the exact experience they are looking for, make sure it is clear –
don’t make them have to read between the lines or join the dots. Spell
everything out for them. If you don’t have the perfect profile for the role but
know you can do it, highlight your transferrable skills. It’s always important
to research your target roles beforehand to find out exactly what they are
looking for in an applicant.
3.
What font should I use in my CV?
The saying ‘keep it simple stupid’ exists for a reason
and is definitely a principle that applies here. Forget cursive text that makes
your CV look like an excerpt from Tom Riddle’s diary, and best you steer clear
of Webdings altogether. Nice symbols, though. Use a simple font that looks
professional and is easy for recruiters and employers to read. Size matters too
– you can’t go wrong if you stick around the 10/12pt mark.
4.
Should I include a photo on my CV?
Generally speaking, your best Blue Steel needn’t
grace its presence on your CV. Unless you are applying for an acting or modeling
job (which would most likely specifically request photographs), there is
no need to include one on your CV. It will take up space that could
be better used with text that demonstrates the value of hiring you. Show them
how you’re so much more than just a pretty face.
5.
Do I include all of my experience on my CV?
You should include all of your experience on your CV for
transparency, but older or irrelevant roles can be shortened down to brief
summaries. All of your previous roles were NOT created equal. It is important
to bring out the most relevant points and let other bits take the backseat.
6.
Should I include my date of birth on my CV?
Age is only a number, right? Employers do not make
recruitment decisions based on a candidate’s age, so there’s no need
to include your date of birth.
7.
Should I hide employment gaps on my CV?
Take the guesswork out of your CV. You don’t want
recruiters or employers scratching their heads trying to fill the gaps
themselves, so if you have long periods of unemployment you should be up front
and explain them. Keep this short and sweet after all, it’s just to let them
know what was keeping you occupied during that time. Ideally
use constructive reasons such as personal projects, study or travelling.
8.
Should I include interests on my CV?
As a general rule, only include interests if they are
relevant to the roles you are applying for and will make a positive impact
on your applications. If you feel including your passions or pastimes adds to
the profile you want to show your employer, put them in, but don’t get too
carried away. Always keep it as professional as possible.
9.
Do I need a cover letter?
Typing a persuasive, personalized cover letter shows
you are serious about your career and the opportunity. It should
paint a clear picture of who you are and what you are looking for, and why you
want to engage in further conversation.
10.
Should I include references in my CV?
Employers won’t contact references until they have
intentions of potentially offering you the job. You don’t need to list
them on your CV, instead a one-liner like ‘references available upon
request’ will do the trick.
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