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Know your audience
When crafting the content for your CV think first about who’s reading it, what they are looking for, and what skills and experience their ideal candidates have? Think about how your CV can be tailored to demonstrate these specifics. To save time it’s a good idea to have a few different versions of your basic CV on hand to make it easier to tailor to the job you’re applying for.
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Reverse chronological
This ensures that the most recent qualifications and experience are the first thing the employer sees. A lot of jobs require you to fill out an online CV so having all of your information in chronological order will make this easier too.
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Word economy
Choose your words carefully. If it isn’t relevant, be brutal and cut it out. Use the STAR method to write succinct examples and make sure everything is relevant.
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Presentation
The words should look good on the page so make sure everything is clear and well formatted. For example, make sure you don’t change font or font size part way through your CV. Furthermore, if you’re handing in a hard copy, don’t fold or staple the paper – a simple paperclip and plastic wallet will look much tidier.
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Proofread
This final check might just be the most important. Spelling mistakes and grammar issues give a bad first impression. Get as many people as you can to read it over and help to make sure your CV is in tip top shape. Whilst you’re applying for jobs, try to make sure you’re checking your CV at least once a month to ensure all the content is still relevant.
You can find more useful information on crafting the perfect CV at: https://careerhub.liv.ac.uk/docs/1579/CVs.pdf.
The University’s Careers and Employability Service offers advice and services related to seeking employment. You can find out more at: https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/careers/applications-and-interviews/cvs/.