How to write a winning CV

What to include and what not to include – a CV should be a taster menu for your experience and skills, wanting the reader to have a conversation with you to find out more. Always prepare your CV for a specific job; avoid sending the same CV to all jobs you are applying for, it needs to be tailored. Whether that is moving the bullet points around or modifying the profile, give yourself the best chance of getting that interview!
Formatting Tips
- Length: Aim for two pages – for experience in excess of 2 years remember to summarise as shown below.
- Font: Use clear, professional fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in size 11 or 12.
- Layout: Maintain consistent formatting with headings, bullet points, and adequate white spacing for readability.
- File Format: Save and submit your CV as a PDF to preserve formatting.
Best Practices
- Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV for each application, aligning your skills and experience with the job description.
- Use Action Verbs: Start bullet points with dynamic verbs like “managed,” “developed,” or “implemented” to convey impact.
- Quantify Achievements: Where possible, include numbers to demonstrate success (e.g., “Increased sales by 20%”).
- Proofread: Ensure your CV is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Consider having someone else review it.
- Be Honest: Avoid embellishing your experience; recruiters often verify information, and honesty is crucial.
CV (example)
CONTACT DETAILS
Name
Address or Postcode
Mobile Number
Email Address
LinkedIn Profile
PROFILE
A brief snapshot of your key achievements and successes in your career, as well as who you are as a person and what you are looking for in a new role.
NB: (Attach portfolio or website link)
SKILLS
Detail all your key skills alongside systems, platforms that you are proficient in using.
CAREER HISTORY
Job Title
Company Name
Dates of employment
Use bullet points to identify the key elements of each role and achievements
- Aim for a maximum of 10 bullet points
- Use metrics
- Identify key aspects of the job
- Prioritise your bullet points according to the job that you are applying for
- Any achievements
(How many years’ experience to include?)
Ultimately your experience beyond 10 years is interesting and should be included – summarise it instead
EDUCATION / PROFESSIONAL TRAINING
Relevant professional qualifications
(State your final level of education)
University, Degree and Class
A Levels (subjects and grades)
GCSE’s (subjects and grades)
HOBBIES AND INTERESTS
Team player?
Enjoy charity and raising money for good causes?
Quite often hobbies and interests will create a commonality between yourself and your prospective employer and is a good talking point as an icebreaker!
For more information on TMR Group’s recruitment services and current job openings, visit our official website: https://www.tmrgroup.co.uk/cv-tips/