How to write a CV

A well-written CV is an essential step toward crossing the doorstep of a new company and finding suitable employment. HR managers pay attention to your resume only for a few seconds and then switch to the next one. 50% of resumes are immediately discarded because of their low quality. Thus it is imperative that you choose the right form and design. A CV must catch attention, so if you find yours to be lacking, you can also choose a non-traditional look.

Try to imagine yourself in the role of employer and think about what he will focus on while reading your CV. Read the job requirements and keep them in mind when writing your resume.

The information included in your CV is critical for getting an invitation to a job interview. HR professionals and employers perceive your CV rather as a product, which you will defend if invited for an interview. Employers prefer an easy to read, clear and structured resume of no more than two pages.

What should a CV include?

Contact information, work experience, education, continuing education (training, courses, certificates), language skills, other skills (driving license, PC skills, etc.), references, date, and signature.

It is also recommended:

• Use one type of font.
• If the content of your CV is longer than two pages (e.g. because of completed pieces of training), move data to the attachment.
• If you attach a photo, it should be in the right upper corner.
• Your last place of employment should take the most space.

What should you avoid?

• Do not lie on your CV. The HR manager usually finds it out at the interview.
• Do not give information that has no direct connection to the position (e.g. personal information).
• Do not attach inappropriate photos (snapshots from holidays, etc.)
• Do not overvalue your skills and knowledge.
• Avoid spelling mistakes and colloquial expressions.
• Do not write phrases like “I was responsible for…”. Write specifically what you did.

Final tip – Ask your friends to read your CV. They can reveal what you cannot see and point out anything that needs more clarification.

Other tips and pieces of advice that can help you with your professional and personal development can be found on our Facebook page. If you are looking to put new life into your career, an MBA study where you could deepen your management skills could be the solution.