A CV is the first point of contact between you and your potential employer, and it’s important to make a good first impression. Whether you’re just joining the workforce or you have years of experience, you are more likely to be invited for interview if your CV shows off your education, skills and experience in a clear, concise and professional manner.

Here are our top tips for writing a job-landing CV:

  • Keep it brief

As amazing as your career as a part-time ice cream scooper was in high school, if it’s not related to your current job application, it’s not relevant. Focus on your current or most recent jobs, and make sure you focus on specific skills that are important to the role for which you have applied.

HOT TIP: Make sure you refer back to the job ad itself when customizing your CV for an application. Often the ad will describe the required skills for the position, so if you fit the bill then you should elaborate on these areas.

  • Don’t overload with unnecessary details

Whilst it was previously standard to include a large amount of personal details, it is no longer required (or legally allowed to be requested) by a potential employer. Unnecessary personal details include your age, marital status, religion and nationality. You also do not need to include an address – city will suffice.

  • No need for extra fancy fluff

Unless you are applying for a graphic design position, there is no need to fret about creating a fancy or elaborate resume. Use a simple, modern font throughout with clear headings and bullet points. Avoid cluttered tables and unnecessary images, and make sure that your CV is saved in a format that is compatible with standard software.

  • Best foot forward

‘studmuffin69@hotmail.com’ may have been a fantastic email address back in the day, but it doesn’t look so great to prospective employees. Similarly, use of language should be professional at all times – avoid text abbreviations or informal language.

  • Follow instructions

Most importantly, make sure that you follow instructions as they are set out in the job advertisement. Make sure you know to whom you should be addressing your resume, whether you should submit it online or via email, and what documents and formats are required. If a potential employer cannot access your documents, or if you’ve missed out on important required details, you’re on the back foot from the get go.