There is so much information flying around about how to create the perfect CV.

If you have the time and inclination, you could spend weeks researching the subject however, if you don’t have that luxury, here’s some simple hints and tips that could make all the difference to the impact that you could make on a potential employer.

Just remember, the golden rule is to keep your CV simple and clear whilst making sure it is relevant to the position you are applying for. If you can keep it to two pages, then so much the better.

To help get you started, feel free to follow the below guidelines as these are the typical stages of a CV. If you would prefer to use a CV template, click here

Header and intro

• Name and contact details should head the first page.
• As many contact details as possible, as clear as possible
• Keep it easy to read

Personal statement

• Your statement should cover main strengths and achievements that are relevant to the opportunity
• Your statement needs to be concise, accurate and legible

Work History

• Start with most recent position
• State start and finish dates
• State title
• Under a sub-heading of Responsibilities bullet point what you are responsible for i.e. Turnover x, Team of x, Area trainer etc
• Under a sub-heading of Achievements, bullet points your achievements in precise terms i.e. increased sales by x%, Developed X members of team into management, Won company prize for. State how you have performed positively against your KPI’s

Education and Training

• State educational establishments and course title
• State grades achieved
• Summarise training courses attended and whether they were external or in house

Interests

• Keep concise
• Don’t exaggerate, only list activities you are currently active in
• You do not have to list any

References

• List current employer and previous
• List personal one if you wish
• Referees will not be contacted prior to any offer being made