A strong CV should be clear, concise, and tailored to the job you’re applying for. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating one:
1. Choose the Right Format
• Reverse chronological (most common): Lists work experience from the most recent to oldest.
Eg: Job Title | Company Name | Location | Dates (Month/Year – Present)
• Functional: Focuses on skills rather than work history (good for career changers).
• Combination (Hybrid): Mixes both formats, highlighting skills and experience.
2. Include Essential Sections
A. Contact Information
• Full Name
• Phone Number
• Professional Email
• LinkedIn Profile (optional but recommended)
• Personal Website/Portfolio (if applicable)
B. Professional Summary (Optional but Recommended)
• 2–3 sentences summarizing your key skills, experience, and career goals.
• Example:
“Results-driven sales manager with 5+ years of experience in B2B sales. Skilled in client acquisition, team leadership, and revenue growth. Seeking to leverage expertise in a dynamic sales environment.”
C. Work Experience
• Job Title | Company Name | Location | Dates (Month/Year – Present)
• 3–5 bullet points per job, highlighting achievements with numbers where possible.
• Use action verbs and focus on results.
• Example:
• Increased sales revenue by 35% in one year by implementing a targeted marketing strategy.
• Led a team of 8 salespeople, improving productivity by 20% through training initiatives.
D. Skills
• List hard skills (e.g., CRM software, data analysis, SEO) and soft skills (e.g., communication, leadership).
• Prioritize job-relevant skills.
E. Education
• Degree | University | Year of Graduation
• Relevant coursework (optional for fresh graduates).
F. Certifications & Training (If Applicable)
• Include industry-related certifications (e.g., PMP, AWS, Google Analytics).
G. Projects (Optional)
• Showcase significant projects with quantifiable results, especially if you lack experience.
H. Additional Sections (If Relevant)
• Languages (Fluent in English, Basic French, etc.)
• Volunteer Experience
• Awards & Achievements
3. Formatting Tips
• Length: 1 page (for professionals with less than 10 years of experience), max 2 pages.
• Font: Professional (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman, size 10–12).
• Margins: 1 inch on all sides.
• Bullet Points: Keep descriptions concise.
• No Pictures (unless required): Many recruiters prefer CVs without photos to avoid bias.
4. Customize for Each Job
• Use keywords from the job description to pass ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems).
• Emphasize the most relevant skills and experiences.
5. Proofread & Save Correctly
• Check grammar and spelling.
• Save as PDF (unless the job posting specifies a different format).
Bonus: CV vs. Resume
A CV is more detailed (used for academic/research positions), while a resume is concise and tailored to corporate jobs.