Writing a Curriculum Vitae

 
Curriculum Vitaes are called a variety of things e.g. CV, resume. There is no universally accepted format. The most important attribute of a successful CV is that it clearly explains to the reader what it is that the applicant can do for them. A CV should be: 

A well-presented document 
A source of interesting, relevant information 
A script for talking about the applicant
A document that sells the individual’s skills 

The purpose of the CV is not to get the job. Its purpose is to secure the individual an interview, and afterwards to remind the employer about the individual. Remember: a CV is written for the reader, a prospective employer. It must meet the needs of the target organisation where possible. This means a single generalised CV is unlikely to be sufficient. 

 
The CV must highlight the applicant’s achievements and how they relate to the job applied for. It must give the reader a clear indication of why that person should be considered for this role. 
The following guidelines will help decide what to include in a CV: 

Generally, the document should contain no more than 2 pages.

The CV should be honest and factual. 

A presentation format should be chosen that allows the individual to headline key skills, key achievements and/or key attributes. 

The first page should contain enough personal details for a potential employer to contact the individual easily. 

Information that clearly demonstrates the individual’s suitability for the vacancy they are applying for, and enhances the chances of being short-listed, should be placed near the beginning of the CV. 

Employment history should start with the current or most recent job and work backwards. 

Achievements should be short, bullet-pointed statements and include the individual’s role, the action taken and a comment on the result of the action. 

Information that is irrelevant or negative should be left out. 

Include details of recent training or skills development events attended, if relevant.

Professional memberships and relevant qualifications should be listed in bullet form. 

Personal interests should be listed.

Names and contact details of 2 referees should be provided at the end of the CV.