If your view of the CV is around the level of necessary evil, you are selling yourself massively short. It is the document for you to show the world (specifically people who might want to pay you money) exactly what you can do. Why then do people treat their CV like the yellow pages and produce boring, sterile documents that get binned as soon as they are looked at
In the English speaking world, it can be considered rude to boast about yourself- nobody likes a smart alec so why should anyone like that sort of arrogance in a CV. The bottom line is that there is a significant difference between arrogance and confidence. Your CV is a place to show others exactly how valuable you have been to those companies fortunate enough to employ you
Coming over like a pushy double glazing salesman in a CV will no help you. Not unless you're looking for a job selling double glazing anyway! Quiet confidence in factual achievements leap out of the page as they are honest and have the recruiter wanting to know more. Achievements in the past show a track record that is likely to be repeated (at least in the recruiters eyes)
An old story says that to be a good liar, you need a good memory. Far simpler I believe then to tell the truth, particularly on your CV. As well as making you bulletproof in an interview, just focusing on real, truthful achievements removes all the stress that comes with having to guard against a lie. Be honest, it's easier in the long run
Spelling, grammar and punctuation are vital in a CV. Whilst the proper English police won't be turning up on your doorstep if you spell a couple of things wrongly, you won't be getting many interviews if you do. Spell checkers are excellent but the best answer is having someone else to proof read your CV. You would be amazed what they will pick up as you are too close to the subject to be objective
You worked hard for your qualifications so please make sure that they are included on your CV. Work back wards from the highest level of qualification through to the lowest, separating out the professional qualifications and the educational ones
Being able to drive a motorised vehicle is an advantage that you should not forget to exploit. Passing a driving test of any level shows that you are responsible, are able to take instructions and show a degree of independence. Show clearly on your CV the sort of vehicles that you can drive, you never know when that may be important to the employer
Never ever put your date of birth on to any document that may be passed on electronically. You never know who will read your CV and what they may use the information for. Identity theft is a very real issue, so please don't make it any easier than it already is for someone to steal yours
Author Resource:
About the writer: Mr. Hughes is the managing director of a cv writing service based in Wales. Managing ateam of cv writing professionals that help people get the interviews that they deserve