Writing your CV! Part 1 The Basics

First of all ‘CV’ stands for ‘Curriculum Vitae’ which means ‘story of your life’! But in this context it means a brief written account of your career so far. The intention is to sum up all the basic information that an employer needs to know in one short and easy-to-read document.

Once you have written a basic CV you can then make as many copies as you like and send them to anyone you wish. But more importabtly you can then adapt this basic template to meet the needs of any particular job advert. You can send a copy of your CV when you’re applying for a specific job vacancy or when you’re just writing ‘on the off-chance’.

What information should be in a CV?

Contact details – name, address, post code, telephone number, e-mail address
A short summary with Keywords for recruiters
Skills and personal qualities (Competencies)
Employment history and experience
Qualifications, professional memberships and achievements
Education and training
Any special skills e.g. driving licence
Interests and hobbies if relevant
Referees

The order may vary depending on the opportunity you are applying for.

There are different ‘styles’ of CV?

A ‘traditional’ CV lists everything in date order starting with your education and qualifications, followed by your employment history, interests etc.
A ‘more ‘informal’ CV starts that starts with a pen picture of yourself which highlights your skills and experience relevant to the job.
Variations and combinations of the two above

The more informal CV is now fashionable, traditional CVs are more likely to be required for academic institutions etc.

I’ll be writing more about this in my follow up posts. But I’d welcome your thoughts on writing CVs and your questions.

Wendy worries about Dave, replies to his latest letter and promises new posts on CV writing. (leavingthepublicsector.net)
Gaps on CVs – what do they mean? (emeraldstarfish.wordpress.com)
Some Basics – How to write a good CV (ewaslawinska.com)

Wendy Mason is used to working with people moving out of the Public Sector! She is a performance, programme, contract management and change specialist. She works as a consultant, business coach and blogger. Adept at problem solving, she is a great person to bring in when you are going through personal change. You can contact Wendy at wendymason@wisewolfcoaching.com or ring ++44(0)7867681439.