How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae)?

What is a CV? It is a written overview of a person's experience and other qualifications usually prepared for job applications.

CV Writing Tips:

Ø List the things you accomplished at your previous jobs, internships and the skills you have developed through your experiences.

Ø While there will always be job-specific skills that an employer is looking for, most employers will also want you to have some general skills. These general job skills are sometimes called "employability skills". Having employability skills can help you get a job.

Ø  Check the company’s website for extra information about the CV. See if there is any specific information they want you to list in your CV. There might be specific directions listed on the application page. When applying for a more creative job, choose an authentic and flexible format. If you are thinking about a job in finance or marketing area, choose a format that highlights your “Word” skills.

Ø  Consider the job you are applying for. Research the company. A good CV is tailored to the specific job and company you are applying for.

Ø  Use a modern but professional format. Make it short, clear and precise. Avoid unnecessary information.

Ø  Do not list down references in your CV. However, be prepared to provide them with references, telephone numbers, addresses, etc. during the interview.

Format:

Paper Size                      : A4

Font                               : Times New Roman, Arial, or Helvetica

Font Size                        : Name; 14 (bigger and bolder than the other text)

      Address and Telephone; 10 (easily readable minimum size)

      Headings; 13 (a little bigger and bolder than the other text)

      Body; 11 or 12 (company names bold)

Line Spacing                  : Single

Length                            : 1-2 pages (if possible)

Special Names                : Do not translate special names (Le Lycée de Tevfik Fikret,                       Robert Collegiate, TED, etc.); do not translate the company names.

Style:

1.     Keep it short enough to read quickly. Be clearly laid out in a logical order; be accurate in content, spelling and grammar.

2.     Use accurate punctuation.

3.     Use periods instead of columns.

4.     Avoid using jargon, technical terminology, and abbreviations (except for commonly used ones and abbreviations used in educational degrees).

Writing Your CV:

• Think about all educational and volunteer experiences you had in the last 4 years. State each experience clearly.Avoid exaggerations.

Ø  Gather all information about each job experience (titles, names of companies, activities, departments, exact dates and places).

Ø  Write down your education history, experiences, key skills.

Ø  List personal qualifications, technical skills, employability skills, strengths.

Ø  Do not simply describe the job. For each job provide a list of significant contributions you made to the organization.

Ø  Projects you worked at

Ø  Outcomes, achievements

Ø  Contributions

• Use above information under different categories such as education, work experience, internship, skills, awards, projects, social activities, courses, etc.

Ø  Prioritize this information. Decide which information to highlight. 

Ø  Tailor your CV to the specific job and company you are applying for. Decide which attributions to highlight and make your categories based on that.  

• Make sure all this information fits in 1 to 2 pages.

Ø  Create the format for your CV in which all the categories, headings, and dates have same font and font size.

Ø  Be consistent with your format. Stick to easy-to-read fonts and formats. This makes it easier for recruiters to review your CV.

Ø  Use “Word” for a stylish format. Play around with different formats to see which looks most professional.

• Avoid typing mistakes at all costs.

Ø  Spellcheck your resume.

Ø A simple spell check is not enough: ask someone else to proof read your finished CV.

Ø  Correct any mistakes in headings, line spacing, font size and style.

Ø  Make sure you start your sentences with a capital letter, use punctuation, sufficient spacing and clear section headings.

Ø  Make sure personal information such as your name, address, telephone number, and email are correct.

Job Descriptions:

It is very important to know what to include in an efficient CV. A strong CV introduction begins with a descriptive adjective and continues with an action verb.

Ø  Start with a verb describing accomplishments

Ø  Use an adjective

Ø  Use numerical data such as numbers, ratios, percentages

Ø  State the outcomes

Ø  Keep the sentences short

Ø  Avoid using 'I' and other personal pronouns

Ø  Use past tense for completed experiences

Ø  If you have same experiences at different workplaces, just describe the latest workplace experience. Write down the name and position held at the previous job only.

Attention:

Ø  Do not put “CV” or “Resume” as a title.

Ø Do not sign your CV.

Ø  State the purpose of your CV (whether it is for a job opening or an internship) on your cover letter when faxing it.  Write it in the subject part when e-mailing it. Also make sure to add the reference number and date of an announcement if it is an ad. Call to see if they received your CV.

Ø  At first reading, most resume/CVs have around 10 seconds to stand out. Anything that is not immediately clear will be ignored.

Ø  Be careful to ensure accurate grammar. Always get it double checked.