CV surgery

Curriculum Vitae or CV means the story of your life, but that doesn’t mean that employers want a detailed description of everything you have ever done. Instead, they want a summary of your skills, education and work experience to date, that they can see at a glance in order to asses whether you are suitable for the job.

Employers will normally use your CV as a means to shortlist people for interviews, so it is essential that it promotes your best points and makes you stand out from the competition.

The most effective CVs are the one’s clearly focused on a specific job title and will address the employer’s stated requirements for the position, duties and skills – it does involve more work but the extra effort that you put in will make a difference. So the more you can find out prior to apply for a position the better.

Some things to remember when writing your CV:

• Mention things you are good at but don’t go over the top
• Don’t mention things you are bad at or highlight negative points
• Do not lie on your CV – it must be a true account of your skills and qualifications (employers will check your details)
• Make sure that you CV looks professional – it should be word-processed and printed on good quality paper (if posting)
• Be concise – employers prefer a one or two page CV that they can review quickly and easily
• Try to get across your enthusiasm and confidence for the role (even if you don’t feel like it)
• It sounds simple but make sure there are no spelling mistakes and get someone to read through your CV before sending it. Many employers will discount a CV if it has typos or mistake, as it comes across as being lazy and not made much of an effort
• Look online or click below as there is lots of advice out there and easy templates to follow:

Example of a chronological CV
Example of a functional CV
Example of a targeted CV

Covering letter
A covering letter is sent with your CV to further outline your suitability for a job. But it needs to do more than just say ‘here is my CV’! It is a real opportunity for you the sell yourself, outline why you are applying for the position and why you are the best person for the job.

Some things to remember when writing your covering letter:

• Your letter should be no longer than one page long – short, simple and to the point
• You should include your name, address and contact details even if they are on your CV
• Refer and tailor the letter to the job you are applying for and explain why you want the job
• Make sure you address the letter to the relevant person rather than starting 'Dear Sir/Madam'. If necessary phone up the company and ask them who in particular to address it to, in order to make it more personal
• Again make sure there are no spelling mistakes!
• Follow a professional business layout – word-process your letter but sign your name at the bottom or insert it digitally (if possible) if sending by email
• Refer to relevant aspects of your CV – after all you are trying to get them to read it

Cover letter examples from Support for Learning and The Guardian.