Few tips for a good CV

As a person receiving hundreds of CVs almost every day for the past 14 years, I have seen many CVs with multiple mistakes. So, I have put together few tips that might help someone improving their CV writing skills.

Formating and General:

• The CV should be as simple as possible, clean and neat, and usually should not exceed two to a maximum of three pages in length. 
• Use a proper professional font, for example (Calibri or Garamond), and size 11 or 12 is a perfect choice with black or dark color.
• Do not write in CAPS.
• Save and send your CV in PDF format only.
• Check your spelling, grammar, and how your CV is written to avoid small mistakes that give the wrong impression. 
• Try to use Action verbs as it gives your CV power.
• You may add a professional photo if you like.
• You could add Gender, Age, Nationality, and marital status.
• Avoid mentioning religion, race, and sexuality.
• Never lie.

Contact details:

On top of your CV, ensure that your given and sir name is available, updated, and functional mobile number and email address. You may also add your website or professional profile link.

• Put your real name and not a nickname.
• Try using a professional email and avoid teenage email names.
• Ensure the mobile number is valid and what you are usually using.
• If you add social media, choose wisely; social media present your professionalism. 

Introduction/profile:

If you want, you can have two to three lines of profile that summarize your industry, career level, and education.

Experience:

• It would be best to start with the latest job back to when you started your career or maximum the past ten years of your career.
• It's required to mention your last title, your company name, and the period you worked for that company.
• It's also good to add minimal vital duties and responsibilities. 
• It would be perfect if you added your work achievement, especially if it's measurable and quantifiable. OR, create a separate section for accomplishments.

Education:

You may list down your education and certificates, including the year of graduation starts with the latest. 

Skills:

Do not add too much, be true to yourself and always put skills relevant to the position you are looking for.

Application Tracking System (ATS):

Many large organizations are now are using ATS to filter thousands of CVs. So, you need to have plenty of relevant keywords, no tables or graphs, and use ATS friendly format.

Cover letter:

It's good to have but not always, as some hiring managers are not even looking at it. Keep it ready and up to date, but send it only upon request. Usually, the cover letter will include a summary on one page to summarize your experience journey, industry, education, achievements, and whatever is relevant.