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Creating a CV Writing a CV can sometimes feel a bit daunting but using our easy to follow guidelines should make it a bit easier. How do I present it?

  • Always use good quality plain white paper and a plain easy to read typeface.
  • Keep it simple - dont bother with borders, shading etc as it will only detract from the content.
  • The CV should preferably be no more than 3 pages long but ideally 2.
  • Staple the pages together and do not use bindings etc, as they are annoying so again keep it simple.
  • What do I put in it? Always start with your name at the top followed by all your contact details.
  • This can include a work number but only if you are prepared to be contacted there.
  • Use bullet points as these are easy to read. List everything in reverse order i.e. educational history, academic achievements and work history.
  • Dont leave gaps between jobs.
  • Always state what you did however small and insignificant. Put personal interests last and make sure this is short.

Click here to View a CV Template that is proven and effective. 

 

Writing a covering letter

Your covering letter is very important just like your CV. It introduces you so it needs to be professional. This easy to follow formula should help you create the correct impression.

 

Should my letter be handwritten?

A hand written letter shows time has been taken and that you are capable of writing a letter so if the application is by post then this is a good idea. However if you have not got very good handwriting the best option is to type the letter.

  • A typed letter is preferable in business today due to email and the speed in which we work. However standard letters are easy to spot so try to make yours as personal and relevant to the application as possible. Where do I start?
  • Firstly explain why you are writing. If you are responding to an advert state where you saw it and when and always quote the reference number if there is one.
  • Next briefly explain what you currently do and any relevant qualifications or details.
  • Lastly state what you will do next i.e. you will wait for their response or you will contact them in a few days to see if your application was received safely.

 

Interviews

PREPARATION, PREPARATION and MORE PREPARATION is the key for successful interviews. Following some basic rules can make all the difference.

  • Make sure you know whom you are meeting, where you are going, and what time and how to get there.
  • Always take your CV with you in case they have mislaid the original one also take something to make notes with and on.
  • Take all research material that you have found like company information and Internet research. Find out as much about the company as possible.
  • If you have any, it is always a very good idea to take along written references, employee awards, commissions paid (Ideal for sales positions), customer testimonials, record of achievement, qualifications basically anything positive from previous positions that show you have potential.
  • Familiarise yourself fully with the job specification and try and match your CV to it as much as possible. This will help show evidence that you can do the job!

 

The Interview

  • Try to RELAX as much as possible. This should help those nerves.
  • Make sure you always listen fully to the questions that you are being asked and think carefully about your answers and dont rush take your time.
  • Try to smile as much as possible and make eye contact. Body language is a useful skill to use.
  • Be honest. If you know your weaknesses admit to them but equally talk about your strengths.
  • Make sure you have prepared some questions to ask the interviewer. This shows enthusiasm and can make all the difference to the interviewer.
  • When concluding an interview the interviewer may not say how the process will continue from there so always ask but dont be too pushy. 

 

Second Interviews Hooray!!

You passed the first interview and they would like to see you again.  Second interviews are usually more focused on can you do the job and your personality and will you fit in?

  • Again preparation is the key. All the same rules apply as with the first interview but try and find out even more about the company this time and remember as much as possible from what they told you previously.
  • Second interviews are also often used to introduce you to potential colleagues and managers. This is an ideal opportunity to ask them questions about what it is like to work there.