Tips for a good CV
1. Structure and layout
Keep it clean and simple: use a professional layout with clear headings, bullet points, and consistent formatting. Avoid excessive colours or graphics.
Reverse chronological order: list your most recent experience first, working backward. This helps the Advisory Assessment Panel see your latest accomplishments right away.
Use sections: organise your CV into clear sections: contact information, professional summary, skills, work experience, education, certifications, and additional information (such as languages or volunteer work).
2. Writing a strong professional summary
Be specific: your summary should be a concise snapshot of who you are, what you’ve accomplished, and what you will bring to the role.
Include key skills: mention your most relevant skills and achievements that align with the role you are applying for.
Tailor to the role: adjust your summary to reflect the requirements of each application.
3. Highlight key skills and competencies
Match the role description: list skills that directly match the job description, using the same keywords where possible.
Include hard and soft skills: highlight both technical (e.g. data analysis, project management) and soft skills (e.g. communication, leadership).
Create a skills section: if applicable, create a dedicated section for key skills to ensure they stand out.
4. Showcase your experience effectively
Use bullet points: list achievements and responsibilities in bullet points for readability.
Include relevant experience: focus on work experience that is relevant to the role you are applying for.
Focus on achievements: highlight specific achievements rather than just listing job duties.
5. Relevant education and certifications
Include certifications and training: list relevant certifications, courses, and professional development programs, including dates when these were obtained.
List relevant education if appropriate (this will depend on the role): include your highest education level, the institution’s name, and graduation date.
6. Use action verbs
Powerful language: use strong action verbs like “managed,” “developed,” “led,” “achieved,” “designed,” and “implemented” to describe your experience and accomplishments.
7. Customise for each application
Adjust content: modify your CV to reflect the skills and experiences that are most relevant to each role.
Use keywords: incorporate keywords from the role description to show you’ve tailored the CV and given it considered thought.
8. Formatting tips
Use a professional font like Arial or Times New Roman in 10-12 point size.
Consistent formatting: ensure uniformity in dates, bullet points, and spacing throughout the document
Avoid photos: photos are not necessary and can be distracting
9. Final checks before submission
Proofread: review your CV multiple times for errors and ask someone else to check it too.
Save as pdf: save and send your CV as a pdf to ensure consistent formatting across devices.
Label appropriately: name your file with your name and the job title, e.g., “joe_bloggs_CV_board_member_BBC.pdf.”