CV writing ...

[fatpasty]

Does anyone have a template for writing a CV or know of any good websites which can help me out on this.

Need to write a CV and haven't got a clue where to start.

Sorry if someone has already asked the question.

[ColinM50]

Rather than try to tell you how to write one, have look on something like monster or jobs uk and see if you can find something to use as an outline, I wouldn't like to say copy, but you know what I mean.

There's no real point starting from scratch, as a worse case get hold of any company's application form to see the sort of information empoloyers are looking for annd base your CV around that.

[rog007]

The template is the easy bit; there are some good examples on line. The challenge is the content. If you get stuck, drop me a PM - its what I do. Good luck!

[fatpasty]

rog007 said:

The template is the easy bit; there are some good examples on line. The challenge is the content. If you get stuck, drop me a PM - its what I do. Good luck!

Many thanks. May take you up on that.

[pmyhill]

I'd never written a CV in my life, and was returning to work after taking 18months off.

I used Bill Cogle @ http://www.cv-masterclass.com/index.html

Wasn't the cheapest CV but we spent over an hour on the phone and we did a lot of talking about what i've previously done he also asked me loads of questions and got all the info he needed.

About a week later I got my CV and was very impressed. I'd certainly recommend him to anyone.

[StealthSteve]

I wrote my own from scratch about a year ago; I get an interview 9/10times:

Name
D.O.B
Address
P/Code
Mobile: Email:
(^this is all top centre of an email attachment/sheet of A4)

Then a summary of my traits & passions/hobbies:
(I'l just copy mine as an example)

About Me
I'm a young practical person who’s trustworthy, enthusiastic and flexible in my working environment, a good time keeper, numerate and literate.

I have a big passion for Motor sports, Music, Football & Technology/Gadgets, I can work on my own initiative or as part of a team as required.

Most Recent Work:-

(^then list recent work, mine's in recent order first).

Then give a summary of school and qualifications but not actual grades/results.


Just remember that that 1 page is what sells you, 1 page. Don't waste it jabbering on. It IS your sales pitch.

[rog007]

StealthSteve said:

Just remember that that 1 page is what sells you, 1 page. Don't waste it jabbering on. It IS your sales pitch.

Great advice; it's what many also term the 'elevator pitch'. "The name "elevator pitch" reflects the idea that it should be possible to deliver the summary in the time span of an elevator ride, or approximately thirty seconds to two minutes."

Many of my clients find this the hardest bit when doing a CV themselves as many of us have a natural tendency to be reserved and coy, when in fact what is needed is some celebration of our skills and achievements. Having a third party work with you on a CV is often the difference between a good CV and an outstanding CV (or "night and day" as one client said to me).