Free Tips on Writing Your CV

The free CV tips below are aimed at a school leaver or college graduate.

Our full package includes 12 pages of tips for people of all levels of experience.

Employer Expectations from a Graduate

The most important aspect of a CV from a school leaver or graduate is academic achievement. However, each of the points below also have a significant influence on whether you get selected:

An attractive CV with all the essential information and an appropriate level of detail.

Evidence of particular interest in the position offered e.g. subject choices, project work, a relevant thesis or hobbie.

Practical application of what you have studied e.g. project work or outplacement with an employer.

Computer skills. These are important for most jobs these days. If it is not clearly a significant part of your education then list any computer applications that you have used, state your familiarity with e-mail and the internet and mention any programming experience that you have gained.

Part-time or temporary work experience. If you have had to work your way through college then it shows determination and ambition. If you have held down a position for some time it implies that you are easily managed and willing to work hard.

Sporting achievement. This implies a competitive nature and good social skills.

Content Guidelines

Pay attention to the appearance of your CV. Use white space generously and try to use consistent text alignment.

Start each section with your most recent education/experience and work backwards.

'I' is assumed throughout. For example use 'Played on the college rugby team' rather than 'I played on the college rugby team'.

Bullet points are easier to read and have more impact than paragraphs of text.

As a recent graduate/school leaver you should include the results of each subject that you have taken. Do not, however, include the results of exams that you have failed unless it leaves an obvious gap.

Tell the truth and avoid exaggeration. If an interviewer disbelieves anything that you say then your whole application is discredited.

Document scanning and computer analysis is being increasingly used by large organisations and recruitment agencies. Be sure to include relevant keywords in the text of your CV.

Avoid all jargon, abbreviations and acronyms unless they are very widely used. The first person screening your CV may not be technical. Also, different organisations use different terms.