Resource Centre
How to write the perfect CV
When writing a curriculum vitae really think about what you want to say. This is your opportunity to really sell yourself.
Your CV should include the following information –
- Personal information – Full name, postal address, mobile number, home telephone number, e-mail address.
- Profile – Your key strengths/skills and what it is about you that makes you a good potential employee. Try to keep this section brief and to one paragraph.
- Education – Dates with the name and town of the education establishments that you attended. List passed qualifications gained and details of any specific qualifications that the role requires.
- Employment – Put your jobs in chronological order starting with your current or most recent role and working backwards. Include the dates you were employed, your job title, the company name and a brief, factual summary of your duties. If you have any periods of unemployment explain with the dates what you were doing e.g. charity work, travelling etc
- Skills – Any additional languages, software packages etc
- Interests – Any hobbies, sports or pastimes that display your enthusiasm, commitment and willingness to learn
If you would like an office career free CV template that you can edit with your own information please click to download.
Interview Preparation
- Read and fully understand the job description
- Research the company – how long have they been trading, how many staff do they employ, what industry is their business in.
- Dress smartly and look presentable. Smart business dress with clean shoes will make the right impression – remember first impressions count!
- Smile, relax and be polite, ask relevant questions and remember above all to thank the interviewer for their time.
When you have received your offer of employment in writing for your new position then you should resign from your current role.
You should write a short resignation letter, explaining that you have secured a new role, thanking them for their employment and confirming that you are giving them one, two or three months notice in line with your contract.
Never leave your current employer without giving them the contractual notice that you agreed when you started, remember that your new employer will be requesting a reference from them.
If you would like a free copy of a resignation letter click to download.