CVs & Cover Letters

  • Top tips for your CV

    1. Choose a clear layout

    Employers spend around 20 to 30 seconds scanning your CV so it needs to be clear, to the point and easy to read. The last thing a recruiter wants to do is to search for the information that should be ...

  • 2. Tailor your CV to the appropriate audience

    It may sound like a time consuming process, but this is a must. It can increase your chances of getting an interview when you make the effort to tailor your CV to suit the requirements of each particu ...

  • 3. Maintain a zero-tolerance attitude to errors

    It is easy to make mistakes on your CV and it is even more difficult to explain that you made an error in the middle of an interview. Spelling and grammatical errors can also hinder your chances of pr ...

  • 4. Maintain an up-to-date CV

    It can be difficult to remember all the projects and activities you have been involved with and the achievements you have made. However ensure there are little or no gaps in your CV and if you do have ...

  • 5. Include a personal statement

    Use a short personal statement to explain why you are the best person for the job and what your future aspirations are. This should be reflected in your cover letter as well but it is a good introduct ...

  • 6. Tell the truth

    Everyone lies on their CV, right? NO! Don't do it! Lies on your CV can get you in trouble when employers run background checks and contact references. The last thing you want is to start work and ...

  • 7. Make it keyword friendly

    If you’ve uploaded your CV to a company website keywords are likely to be very important. Job titles and job specific words will help a search engine pick out your CV from the hundreds or thousa ...

  • 8. References

    Actual references are rarely included on CVs mainly because it can take up space. It is fine to simply say 'References are available on request' and if your potential employer is interested in ...

  • Top 5 Tips for your Cover Letter

    1. Always send one!

    A cover letter serves as a courtesy one-page document; it is a great way of introducing yourself and explaining which vacancy you're applying for or which area you are enquiring about. ...

  • 2. Don't rewrite your CV

    It should provide edited highlights from your CV but it should not merely repeat what is on your CV. ...

  • 3. First Paragraph, Content and last line

    In your first paragraph, make the reason you're writing clear and sell yourself; writing what makes you better than others straight off; ensure the letter shows how motivated and enthusiastic you ...

  • 4. Talk about the company

    Do some research into the company/ organisation that you are applying to and include information about them. Specifically tell them what you are impressed with and what attracts you to them. ...

  • 5. Neatness/ presentation

    A well written letter should draw the readers’ eye to relevant experience on your CV. Finally, make sure your covering letter is clearly laid out with no typos or spelling errors.   Find ...