Writing a CV that will secure a job interview or offer can be a challenge, and you probably have a list of questions on the dos and don’ts of CV writing. Here we look at all the frequently asked CV questions to accompany our CV template library.
Q. How should I format my CV?
Consistent formatting is the key to a well-presented CV that is appealing to the reader. Our top CV formatting tips include selecting a simple font, keeping it concise, and having someone proofread your CV before sending it to employers or recruiters.
To find out more read: How do I make my CV look professional?
Q. How long should my CV be?
A concise CV will fit onto one page, but it is perfectly acceptable to create a two-page CV as long as the content remains relevant to the job and increases your chances of employment. A three-page CV risks the reader losing interest. However, you should never sacrifice elements that add value to fit your CV onto one or two pages.
To find out more read: Should my CV only be 1 page long?
Q. How can I make my CV stand out?
Adding a personal statement will make your CV stand out and create an excellent first impression. Your CV should include your unique selling points, relevant keywords, evidence to back up your statements and comply with all the basic CV writing rules.
To find out more read: What makes a CV stand out?
Q. What information should I include on my CV?
Information you should have on your CV includes your name and contact details, a personal statement, your education, work history, skills, and hobbies (optional). There are also things not to include on your CV, such as sexual preferences and industry jargon.
To find out more read: What information must I include in a CV?
Q. How do you write a personal statement?
A personal statement should answer three questions; who you are, what you offer, and where you see yourself in the future. We also recommend including examples or evidence of your skills.
To find out more read: What to include within a personal statement on a CV
Q. How much career history should I include on my CV?
If you have held a significant number of jobs, then we don’t recommend going back more than 15 years. You can consider not going into detail about roles that will not help you get your new job but don’t leave unexplained gaps in your work history. Conversely, if you have little career history, include volunteer work or part-time and seasonal roles.
To find out more read: How much job history should I include on my CV?
Q. How do I add my education to my CV?
You should begin with your most recent academic achievements and work back from there. You should include grades, although you can group these for your GCSEs. The modules and projects of educational courses can be used to create examples of skills in action, a helpful tactic if you have little work experience.
To find out more read: What education and qualifications should I include on my CV?
Q. What skills should I include on my CV?
A mix of soft and hard skills should appear on your CV. Hard skills include software proficiency; soft skills include adaptability and problem-solving. Our top tip is to read the job description you are applying for and prioritise these of your CV.
To find out more read: How to identify the skills I should include on my CV
Q. Should I include hobbies and interests on my CV?
Hobbies and interests are optional, but they can add value when you want to show your personality or highlight skills and experience you cannot demonstrate through your education and work experience. If the hobby does not add value to your job application, then leave it off your CV.
To find out more read: Should I include hobbies on my CV?
Q. Do I need to include references on my CV?
Today’s norm is to state ‘references available on request.’ It would be best if you were prepared to provide references ahead of a job offer, and it is courteous to ask for permission before giving out their contact details. Good reference sources include past bosses, teachers, and career coaches.
To find out more read: Should I include references on my CV?
CV template examples
For further help writing your CV view our CV templates and read our career advice:
- Accounting CV template
- Agriculture CV template
- Arts CV template
- Automotive CV template
- Banking CV template
- Charity CV template
- Construction CV template
- Customer Services CV template
- Education CV template
- Engineering CV template
- Environmental CV template
- Facilities Management CV template
- Finance CV template
- Healthcare CV template
- Hospitality and Leisure CV template
- Human Resources (HR) CV template
- Information Technology (IT) CV template
- Leadership CV template
- Legal CV template
- Manufacturing CV template
- Marketing CV template
- Media CV template
- Office Administration CV template
- Personal Care CV template
- Professional Services CV template
- Public Sector CV template
- Retail CV template
- Sales CV template
- Science CV template
- Social Care CV template
- Telecommunications CV template
- Transportation and Logistics CV template