The art of writing a CV

A GOOD CV...

is a marketing tool (not a list of information); it's a carefully composed document that helps get a job interview (not a job).
is about YOU, the bursary, vac job or job hunter - not merely a data sheet about your education, extramural and work history.
focuses on achievements, skills, value and potential to deliver - not on descriptions of courses, achievements or jobs completed.
focuses on the future (that is, the future and the value you can contribute to an Organisation, your potential) - not the past.

Writing a CV will take time, effort and much thought to complete well.

PRODUCING YOUR CV

1. Learn how to draw up an effective CV

There’s tons of information on writing CV’s – do a search on the Web (starting with this section, of course!) and read the resources in your Careers Center.
Don’t get someone else to write it, no matter how tempting – with a little research, you can do the best job of creating your CV – because no-one knows you like you know yourself!

2. Brainstorm the first draft of your CV - a 'working document' (as many pages as it takes, usually from 8 - 15 pages !)

Brainstorm and write down all relevant information, under the headings given in the diagram on the next page. Concentrate on content and being comprehensive.
First write down everything you've done at school, university, work, etc.
Then write down everything you've gained personally from these experiences - skills, insights, experience, personal growth, etc. (in paragraphs).

3. Edit and polish your 'comprehensive CV' (4 pages maximum)

Shape your working document into a CV which markets you and what you have to offer, to the employer - this usually takes 4, 5 or more drafts!
Have a knowledgeable, objective person check it (for spelling, grammar, layout, coherence, impact, presentation and quality - does it market you?)

4. Draw up your 'abridged CV' (2pages)

Select highlights from your comprehensive CV - very carefully, for maximum impact and targeted at what you are applying for.
You'll need both a comprehensive and an abridged (or short) CV for different job search situations.

5. Complete the Presentation

Have CVs attractively, professionally typed and laser printed (N.B. Error free!)
Assemble and photocopy (10 copies or more?) supporting documents.
Keep the presentation simple, yet classy.

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