Your CV is probably the most important tool in your armoury when looking for a new position. This is the first insight into who your are and what you have to offer that a client will see and will possibly be the deciding factor of whether or not you get that interview !

 

There are few things to remember when putting together your CV

• What information do I want to get across?
  
• What are my key skills and attributes ?
  
• What have been my successes ?
  
• What type of role am I looking ?
  

Generally speaking there is a standard format when writing your CV which is industry recognised by HR (human resources), Recruiters and managers alike.

Firstly remember to KEEP IT SIMPLE !!!

Your CV should be clear and concise and easy to read. Ideally you should be between 3 and 4 pages long. This will depend on your experience but bear in mind that usually the hiring manager is only interested in your last 5 years relevant experience. If they do ask for more information then this can be addressed in the interview and will give you more content to discuss.

Avoid using coloured typefaces and Logos this only confuses the reader and can make the document illegible. Use a simple plain typeface in black.

 

Here are guidelines to a simple format.

• Name, address and personal details
  
  
• Career Summary - brief outline of who you are and what you do – no more than 3 or 4 lines.
  
  • Example: A dedicated Programme / Project manager with an in-depth understanding of the financial markets and the ability to mange large multi million pound global solutions from conception through the full life cycle.
    
    
• Technical / Business experience – This can put down as a list or in a table and should cover your technical skills like C++, SQL, MUREX etc – and your business knowledge like CREDIT DERIVATIVES, EQUITIES etc
  
  
• Career History – Start with your most recent job and work down. If you have had a long career that stretches back over many years concentrate on your most recent jobs. The jobs you had 8+ years ago can often be kept to just a line or two. For each job start a new paragraph with the company you worked for at the head, followed by your job title.This should have both start and end dates for each role as well as a description of responsibilities and achievements.
  
  
• Education – List your qualifications starting with your highest working backwards. Also list the University and Schools attended.
  
  
• Interests – A short outline of your interests and hobbies
  
  
• Referees – Generally provided upon request