Tips for a relevant, concise, and well-written CV (not in any particular order).
1. Grammar matters: The reader is distracted when there are spelling errors. Use a spell-checker to ensure that your content is all that the reader focuses on, and that your CV is not relegated to the “reject” file, because of a perceived lack of attention to detail.
2. Introductions encourage: The CV should begin with an overview at the top of page 1, that introduces the reader to: a) who you are b) what you bring to the table in terms of skills, knowledge, and success, and c) what you are looking for (in terms of a role and business relationship). If the overview is strong, the reader will read on, which is what you want.
3. Contact details should be prominent: Ensure that the top of each page of the CV provides your contact details (e.g. phone/email) so that the reader knows how to reach you.
4. Length: The CV should be no more than 3 pages. Yes, many of us have incredible experiences to share with the reader. The reality is though that brevity matters, and if the reader has 400+ CVs to sort through, the thicker ones may end up on the bottom of the pile.
5. Organization: The CV can be organized experientially (to showcase skills and successes demonstrated in various career roles) or chronologically (by employer and role and timeframe). Many prefer the latter approach, as this allows the reader to understand the journey the writer of the CV has taken in his/her career; their role evolution; time spent in different roles and with different employers, and provides context for when and how they acquired skills and achieved success.
6. Sub-sections of the CV. In addition to the Header (providing contact details); the Introduction (providing an overview); and the Career Chronology, the CV should also have sections that help the reader to understand the following: i) Public Service ii) Awards & Recognition iii)Education iv) Professional Designations/Development. It is possible to include “Interests/Hobbies”, however this is not mandatory, and may cause the CV to be overly long. “Languages” should be noted separately, if a strength, and potentially relevant for positions being sought.
7. Covering Letter: All CVs to be sent out should always have a tailored covering letter, addressed to an identified individual, which speaks to the reason for writing to the reader, and which demonstrates an understanding of their industry, organization, and (as appropriate) needs.
8. References: There is no need to provide references on a CV, as these would be sought out only much later, at an offer stage. There is not even a need to put the notation, “References Available Upon Request” on the CV.
9. Font: The CV need not look fancy, but it should look clean and be easy to read. Use bold and capitals as appropriate for Headers. Use large enough fonts, such that all of the content of your CV is visible to the reader. Avoid italics wherever possible.
10. Proof-read: Even better, have someone else proof-read your CV. They will help you to ensure that it is achieving the goals you’ve set for this.
It is never a bad idea to have an up-to-date CV. By spending a bit of time now on yours, you will ensure that you are ready for whatever may come your way, which will hopefully include many more promotions and job growth opportunities with your present employer.