The following points should be avoided in your CV

 

Personal characteristics

A CV should infer what kind of person you are through what you have done rather than using a section to tell the employer what an ambitious, successful, dynamic individual you are. Detailing your achievements gives a better, more reliable picture of your capabilities than a list of superlatives. This is a common problem with CVs.

 

Graphics and artwork

A CV is a tool to portray you as a professional individual and it needs to reflect that, so try to make it look corporate. Pictures are considered unnecessary amongst most employers in the UK unless specifically requested.

 

Salary details

It is useful for both consultants and employers to know what your current or last remuneration package is in terms of the structure of the package and the value of each part; it forms the basis of any salary negotiations with clients and also helps consultants know where you are looking to pitch yourself in the marketplace. However, it should not be included as part of the CV itself and if your current expectations are markedly different to the current total, you should explain what you are looking for and why in a covering letter.

 

Finally

The most important thing to do once you have collated all the information and arranged it into the format that you are happy with is to CHECK IT THOROUGHLY. An employer can sometimes be looking for reasons to whittle down the pile and spelling mistakes, poor grammar and glaring omissions are the perfect excuses. Once you've checked it, talk it through with your consultant, who will advise with regards to the rest of your job-hunting strategy.

 

You can download the complete CV preparation guide in PDF format by clicking the link opposite. If you are unsure about any aspect of writing or updating your CV, please ask for advice from your consultant.

 

Previous Page