How to Write a CV

How to Write a CV That Stands Out: A Complete Guide for 2024

When it comes to landing your dream job, learning how to write a CV is one of the most important steps. A well-crafted CV not only presents your skills and experience but also leaves a lasting impression on potential employers. Whether you're creating a CV for the first time or refreshing an existing one, this guide will show you how to draft a CV that gets noticed. From understanding what a CV is to learning how to type a CV that highlights your strengths, this article will cover everything you need to know.

With thousands of monthly searches for terms like "how to write a CV" and "how to draft a CV" (10k-100k searches), it's clear that job seekers are looking for ways to stand out in a competitive job market. Below is a comprehensive guide to writing a CV that will help you achieve that goal.

What is a CV?

A CV, or Curriculum Vitae, is a detailed document that outlines your professional background, education, skills, and achievements. Unlike a resume, which is typically shorter and more concise, a CV provides a comprehensive overview of your career journey. It's commonly used in academic, research, and high-level professional fields, but can also be required for many other roles. The purpose of a CV is to showcase your qualifications in a way that convinces employers you’re the best candidate for the job.

How to Write a Great CV: What to Include

To write a CV that captures attention, it’s important to structure it well and include all the necessary elements. Here’s a list of what to include in a CV:

1. Contact Information: Your name, phone number, professional email address, and a link to your LinkedIn profile or portfolio (if applicable).
2. Professional Summary: A short paragraph that highlights your key skills and experience. This is your elevator pitch, so make it count.
3. Education: Detail your academic background, including any degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework.
4. Work Experience: List your roles in reverse chronological order, including your responsibilities and key achievements.
5. Skills: Include both hard and soft skills that are relevant to the job.
6. Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments, such as awards, recognitions, or measurable successes in previous roles.
7. Personal Interests: If applicable, mention any hobbies or interests that make you stand out (but avoid irrelevant or overly personal details).
8. References: While not always necessary, you can mention that references are available upon request.

8 Basic Steps for Writing a CV

1. Create a Header with Contact Information: Start with your full name, phone number, email, and any professional links such as a LinkedIn profile.
2. Write a Professional Summary: Include a concise summary of your professional experience and why you’re a good fit for the role.
3. Detail Your Education: Include your degrees, certifications, and any relevant academic achievements.
4. Provide Your Work Experience: List your jobs in reverse chronological order, highlighting key responsibilities and accomplishments.
5. List Your Relevant Hard Skills: These are specific abilities such as software proficiency, technical knowledge, or languages.
6. List Your Relevant Soft Skills: Examples include teamwork, problem-solving, leadership, and communication.
7. List Your Accomplishments: Focus on measurable results, such as “Increased sales by 15%” or “Managed a team of 10 staff.”
8. Describe Your Personal Interests: Mention any hobbies or activities that align with the company culture or the role.

How to Format Your CV

Formatting your CV properly is essential to ensuring it looks professional and is easy to read:

• Length: Keep your CV to 2 pages maximum.
• Font: Use Arial font size 11 for clear readability.
• No Fancy Formatting: Avoid italics, underlined words, or unnecessary bolding. Instead, use bullet points to break up text and make it scannable.
• Spelling and Grammar: Double-check for any errors. A well-written CV should be free of mistakes.
• Avoid Grids and Borders: Skip using trims, borders, tables, or graphics as these can make your CV difficult to scan.
• Avoid Acronyms: Steer clear of abbreviations or internal terminology that the recruiter may not understand.

What Not to Include in Your CV

While it's important to include the right information, it's equally crucial to leave out unnecessary details that could harm your application. Here's what not to include:

• Photographs: Unless specifically requested, do not include a photo of yourself.
• Personal Information: Skip details like your marital status, date of birth, religion, and dependents.
• Current Salary: Avoid mentioning your salary expectations unless the employer asks.
• Copies of Certifications or IDs: Only provide these upon request.

What is a Cover Letter? Do I Need One?

A cover letter is a one-page document that accompanies your CV, providing a personal introduction to the employer. It is your opportunity to explain why you’re interested in the role, how your skills align with the job requirements, and why you would be a great fit for the company. While your CV focuses on listing your qualifications and experience, the cover letter allows you to express your enthusiasm and personality, setting you apart from other candidates.

Do I Need a Cover Letter?

The necessity of a cover letter often depends on the job you're applying for. While some employers specifically ask for one, others may not. Here's a guide to help you decide:

• When You Should Include a Cover Letter:
• When You May Not Need a Cover Letter:

Even if a cover letter is optional, submitting one can still be a great way to show your interest and give the employer a deeper insight into your personality and qualifications. It's an excellent opportunity to make a lasting impression and provide context that may not fit into your CV.

What to Include in a Cover Letter

If you do decide to submit a cover letter, ensure it includes the following:

• A Strong Opening Statement: Clearly state the role you're applying for and why you're interested in it.
• Why You’re a Good Fit: Highlight your most relevant skills and experiences, tying them directly to the job requirements.
• Show Your Enthusiasm: Convey why you’re excited about the company and the specific role.
• Closing Statement: End with a call to action, such as expressing your eagerness for an interview or further discussion.

A cover letter can be a valuable addition to your job application, allowing you to stand out by giving a more personalised view of who you are and what you can bring to the team.

Conclusion

By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to creating a CV that stands out. Remember, tailoring your CV to each job application and focusing on relevant skills and accomplishments can make all the difference. Whether you're learning how to write a CV for the first time or need tips on how to draft a CV that meets industry standards, this guide is here to help you succeed.

Happy job hunting!