CV Writing Tips

You look the part. Make sure you read it.

Everything PA | CV Writing Tips

Even if you're the very best, most qualified candidate in the world, you won't even get an interview if your CV isn't up to scratch. Your CV's job is to quickly communicate your suitability for the position you're applying for – get it right and your CV will be added to the 'yes' pile.

Follow our 5 top CV tips and you'll be well on your way to securing that interview.

Top 5 CV tips

1) Check, check and check again
Many jobs are oversubscribed, so you have to make sure your CV compares well with the competition. Typos, spelling mistakes and grammatical errors give harassed recruiters an easy excuse to put your CV in the 'thanks but no thanks' pile.

2) Short is sweet
OK, so you've heard it time and again, but we've spoken to countless employers and they all tell us the same thing – keep your CV short…please! When you have hundreds of CVs to sift through less is more. Your CV demonstrates your ability to edit your experience. Keep it short, relevant and interesting.

3) Make your CV stand out
Traditional wisdom dictates a black and white CV nicely typeset on quality paper is all you need - and many employers state a preference for this format. However, a more creative approach, if you feel it is appropriate, could help your CV stand out in the crowd. One creative PA put together a meeting schedule to discuss her employment complete with biscuits and coffee!

4) Tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth
In this case, honesty really is the best policy. There's nothing wrong with editing experience and achievements to fit a particular role, but with more employers checking exam results and professional qualifications any details you've 'massaged' could easily come back to haunt you.

5) Tailor your CV to the position
Whether it's your experience, achievements or even your personal activities, tailoring your CV to your prospective employer makes sense. Do your research, find out what the person you will be assisting does, and tailor your experience accordingly.

If you want help creating your CV use our CV builder.