So, you’ve downloaded your free CV template and your free Cover Letter template.
You have entered all the relevant information in your CV but it still isn’t time to relax!
Even the most conscientious individual is capable of making a mistake that could damage their job prospects.
To ensure this doesn’t happen to you, read through our CV writing checklist and be 100% certain your CV is ready to go.
CV Layout
• Are you using a font such as Cambria or Times New Roman in size 10 or 11?
• Are you sure you only used one font throughout the CV (or a maximum of two)?
• Are all the tabs properly aligned?
• Did you use high quality printing paper? (For applications sent by post)
• Have you divided the CV into the proper sections?
• Is there adequate space between each section?
• Does the relevant information become apparent when you ‘skim’ the text?
• Have you included bullet points where needed?
• Is the CV a maximum of 2 x A4 pages in length?
• Is the most relevant information on the first page?
• Have you checked the CV manually for spelling and grammar?
• Have you asked somebody else to check it for you?
• Did you use bold text for headings and italics on information you want to stand out?
• Did you make sure there isn’t too much white space at the end of the CV?
CV Sections
Personal Details
• Have you made sure all your details are correct and up to date?
• Did you use a professional email address?
• Did you avoid including information such as your ethnicity, date of birth and place of birth?
Personal Profile
• Did you include this section in your CV?
• Did you reflect upon your key skills and experiences?
• Did you keep this section short? You will be able to expand on it later.
Education
• Have you added the educational institutions in reverse chronological order?
• Did you make sure to only include details from college and secondary school?
• Did you outline relevant modules/achievements gained through education?
Work History
• Have you included the work experience most relevant to the job opening?
• Did you keep your list of previous employers down to no more than 3-4?
• Have you outlined the responsibilities of your jobs in relation to the job vacancy?
• Were you specific when it comes to outlining how you benefited your past employers?
Skills/Achievements
• Did you remember to include skills were mentioned in the job opening?
• Have you included hard and soft skills?
• Did you include transferable, job related and adaptive skills?
• Have you included any relevant professional qualifications?
• Have you provided evidence to showcase your skills?
Hobbies & Interests
• Did you include a wide range of hobbies?
• Are your interests social and active rather than being entirely solitary?
• Have you shown evidence of real commitment to at least one activity?
• Do you have any interests that are relevant to the job?
References
• If required, have you included the details of two professional references?
• Have you told your referees to expect a call?
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Final Tips
• Have you made sure that everything in your CV is completely true?
• Did you tailor your experience, qualifications and skills to the job you’re applying for?
• Have you used positive ‘action’ words throughout your CV?
• Critically analyse your CV; does it stand out?
• Did you include ‘keywords’ in your CV?
NIJobs.com has been helping people climb the career ladder since 2000. Our team is brimming with tips, guidance, ideas and inspiration, seeking to bring you closer to your dream job.