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How to write an awesome curriculum vitae (CV)

 Category:Job Seeking Tips  
 By: usericon Nonny01  

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 Created: 2/20/2019 1:19:00 PM

Introduction

CV format/template and tips

Writing a wholesome and appealing CV can prove to be a very daunting task for job seekers. Most people are turned down by HR managers because of the cringe-worthy curriculum vitae they have put together. Some don’t even make it to the interview part of job seeking.
This post, however, will provide tips on how to put together an amazing CV.

 

How to write an awesome curriculum vitae (CV)



1. THE RIGHT FORMAT

There are different kinds of formats with different purposes. If you have been employed before or have a sizable employment history then the best format for you is the chronological CV. The chronological CV lists the applicant’s employment history from the most recent job first to the oldest.
If however, you have little or no experience may be as a fresh graduate, then the skills-based CV where you focus on skills that are most suitable for the job is best for you.


2. LET THE VACANCY ADVERT GUIDE YOU

Be specific while writing your CV and avoid beating about the bush. If in the advert they used keywords such as ‘an excellent communicator wanted’, then you should use the same keyword or phrase while listing your skills, stating that you are an excellent communicator. This will attract the attention to you just as the vacancy advert attracted you.


3. STATE YOUR HOBBIES AND INTERESTS

This tip is especially useful for skill-based CV. It could be just the edge you need to stand out among other applicants. Example if traveling and meeting new people is your hobby, it shows you are very comfortable and flexible working in new environments, assuming the job requires that.


4. DO NOT LIE

It can be very tempting especially to boost your CV but as much as it lies in your power to do so, resist it. Chances of getting caught are high, maybe not immediately but eventually. Lying will only put your integrity at stake and it is a very unprofessional move.


5. EDIT AND PROOFREAD

Check for typographical errors and punctuations. It shows you are a tidy person and pay attention to details. Also, take note of grammatical errors. Those can be really embarrassing.




A SIMPLE TEMPLATE FOR YOUR CV


1. THE HEADER

The header includes:
• Your full name
• Address
• Phone number
• Email address
• Website if available.

Do not include gender, age, and marital status or include a photo. Those are fatal errors.


2. THE PERSONAL STATEMENT

This is a short description of your professional goals and what you can offer the company you are applying to. It should be between 50 to 200 words long.


3. EDUCATION

List your educational background in chronological order. Make sure this entry includes:
• University name
• Dates of study
• Grades.


4. WORK EXPERIENCE

This section is optional for the skill-based CV with no work experience to show. But if however you are a freelancer or do any volunteer work, you can list it here. List only experiences that are relevant to the job you are applying for.
• Your job title
• Dates of employment
• Company’s name and location
• Duties and accomplishments.


5. STATE YOUR SKILLS NEXT

List your skill sets. Make sure you write the skill sets that you actually have and not ones you don't have or still learning.

 

 

6. HOBBIES AND INTERESTS

If you don’t have any work experience, hobbies and interest give your CV more depth and you can get your employer’s attention with the personality traits listed. This section is optional for those who have work experience.

 

 

7. REFERENCES

Seek people’s permission before mentioning them as references. This section is also optional but if you want to you have to list up to 3 referees at least. These are people that can vouch for you.
• Referee’s name
• Their job title and company name
• Their relationship to you (family, friends, church members, etc.)
• Their address
• Their phone number
• Their email address.


8. COVER LETTER

Your CV should be accompanied by a well-written cover letter. It is written in a narrative format and tells why you're an ideal candidate. Even if they didn’t ask for one it is good you send a cover letter with your CV. Make sure it corresponds with the exact job you are applying for.
Make it 3 to 5 paragraphs. That should be enough.

 

How to write an awesome curriculum vitae (CV)

 

How to write an awesome curriculum vitae (CV)

 

Download CV sample


Happy job hunting!


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