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Help writing a CV, tips & advice for job seekers everywhere!

Help writing a CV, tips & advice for job seekers everywhere! Video (in inglese) con consigli utili per la stesura del curriculum vitae.

 

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I'm looking for a contract job -- but the first thing recruitment agencies ask for is my CV.

Why is my CV so important?

Getting an interview can depend on how good your CV is. It is your opportunity to show an employer that you've got the skills and experience needed and that you are the right person for the job.

So, how long should my CV be?

Your CV should be no more than two pages long & easy to read with spaces between each section.

What should I include in my CV?

You need to start with your Personal profile
This section should only be a few lines long, but must spark the reader's interest. Be brief as you can highlight examples of your skills in later sections.

You may include the following:

Name, address and contact details.
Skills and qualities
Then there's your Employment history
Start with your present or most recent job and work backwards, ideally using bullet points as these are much clearer. You may include the following:
Each employer
The dates you worked for them
The job title
Your main duties

You then move on to Education and training

Start with your most recent study and go back to the qualifications you got at school.. You may include the following:

The university, college or school you went to
The dates the qualifications were awarded and any grades
Any other courses, if they're relevant


You will also need to mention Hobbies and interests
Employers like to read about your interests, as it can give them an idea of your strengths and what you'd be like to work with.

You may need to have Additional information
If you need to add anything else that's relevant, such as a gap in your employment history, you could include a further section titled "Additional Information".

& finally there are your References
You should state that references are available if required, although you do not need to include referees' contact details on your CV.

Be positive -- don't be too modest and don't lie about your experience. Positive thinking is vital in securing your next contract.