Your CV should be the best marketing tool you can produce, it needs to get the point across quickly and succinctly and must gain the attention of the reader immediately.  CVs are often scanned quickly by the prospective employer so write it with this in mind.  It is essential that your CV is clear and concise, contains up to date information which is relevant.  You must also ensure that your CV is an accurate and honest account of yourself and your work history/attainments to date.

There are no hard and fast rules at to the layout and content of your CV but the best CVs contain the most relevant information first and are well spaced out.  You should include the following details:

Personal – name, address, contact telephone numbers, e mail address, nationality/citizenship.  Current legislation dictates if you include your date of birth we have to remove it before submitting to a UK client.

Profile –  a short paragraph  to introduce your self and prime the potential employer with an overview of your qualifications, skills, aspirations etc.

Qualifications & Experience – relevant to your current skills and in a logical order.  List/bullet point format best.

Career History  - starting with the most recent  arrange in date order including start and end date, company name and job title.  Give concise information as to the technical aspects of the role and any achievements and responsibilities.

Education – again starting with the most recent give details of qualifications/courses attend as well as University attended, degree qualification and secondary school qualifications.

Hobbies and interests – this is optional.  If you wish to include it should only take  2 or 3 lines.

References – name and addresses of two recent suitable reference.

Points to remember

• Make it clear and easy to read
• Pay attention to the presentation, spelling, font etc
• Be concise, do not waffle or add irrelevant information
• Explain any gaps in education or experience