CV Writing Tips,sample format template
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CV Sample Format

Free CV Writing Tips

The CV writing tips to follow will show you how to improve your CV (Curriculum Vitae) & help your CV writing. 

Also see our Sample CV Format & The Hidden Job Market.

Your CV (Curriculum Vitae) should make an employer want to meet you in person. Your CV is your first step to getting the job that you really want. Most employers review a CV in 20-30 seconds, then move on to the next CV.  

 

     

  • Your CV must reflect the image that matches the salary you are seeking.
  •  Remove everything that starts with "responsibilities included ..." and replace with accomplishments and/ or achievements.
  • Your strengths must stand out clearly at the beginning of your CV.
  • Quantify your experience by including numerical figures, such as monetary budgets/ funds saved, time periods/ efficiency improved, % saved... etc.
  • Begin sentences with Strong Action Verbs. Use the past tense for previously held positions & present tense for currently held positions.
  • Highlight your strengths.
  • Use bulleted sentences rather than paragraphs.
  • Never use "I" or other pronouns to identify yourself.
  • Fill in any gaps, by inserting any valuable work that you did, i.e., volunteer, full-time parent, part-time student or full-time student.
  • If you're short on experience in a certain area, list key classes you have taken &/ or explain how the experience you do have is suited to the employer's needs.
  • Consider replacing your job title with a more appropriate job title if that's more realistic ("Project Manager" instead of "Project Engineer", or write Project Manager/ Project Engineer).
  • Be positive. Stress transferable experience, skills and capabilities.
  • Be descriptive.
  • Emphasis the ability to learn quickly.
  • Pay attention to the overall appearance of your CV & ensure there is adequate white background  space. 
  • Avoid abbreviations.
  • Pay attention to the overall appearance of your CV. 
  • Proofread. Be sure to catch and correct all spelling and grammatical weaknesses & mistakes and correct them.
What not to include in your CV:
  • Don't include marital status, health, citizenship, age (unless asked to do so or it is obvious that it would help your application).
  • Don't include "Hobbies" on your CV.
  • Don't include any ethnic or religious affiliations
  • Don't include current or past pay rate or salary (or salary expectations)