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Let your actions speak for themselves. Keep lines short and to the point. Each point should be distinct with nothing overlooked.
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Try to show a logical development for an employer to see what you have done and where you are set to go next.
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Work in reverse chronology.
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Don't date your CV.
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Lead with achievements.
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Take ownership of your experience by using active verbs and positive language. Back everything up with fact. Be quantitative as well as qualitative. Outline budgets handled and teams managed to make your skills tangible.
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Your degree and where you received it should suffice, unless it is particularly vocational or demonstrates a broad range of experience with subjects that will be of use. If you're not a recent graduate your professional experience will always be more relevant.
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References. Employers will ask for references when they need them. Leave these details off and use the space to say something more important.
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Try to meet the needs of the target organisation where possible. This means a generic CV is unlikely to be sufficient.
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Highlight your achievements and how they relate to the job you are applying for. It must give the reader a clear indication of why you should be considered for this role.
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Your CV should be honest and factual.
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Personal contact details should be clear for a recruitment consultant or potential employer.
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Achievements should be short, bullet-pointed statements and include your role, the action you took and a comment on the result of your action.
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Leave out information that is irrelevant or negative and don't give reasons for leaving previous positions.
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Include details of recent training or skills development that are relevant. List all professional memberships and relevant qualifications.
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Proof-read and get someone else to check it for you. Misspelling or grammatical errors will get noticed before the point you're making is.
- Don't mention salaries earned or required.