So, I've come to a point where I want to start looking for other jobs.

I alreay have my CV somewhere (I used it when applying for my last job which was a second line tech support role).

Since then I've moved across to development and been working here for 3 years I thought it was less than that.

Anyway, I need to update my CV and was wondering if you have any tips/advice on what to write/how to write it?

In my opinion, there are only a few hard and fast rules; none of which I'll be able to stick to, or clearly get across, without giving this response some proper thought...

But here goes anyway :

Keep it short - no one wants to read your life story when vetting - you have to make it through the first post (there are plenty of suggestive reports out there saying a CV gets less than a minute of consideration on first read)
Keep it clear - avoid overly fantastic formatting, even if it's a design-based sector (that's what a portfolio is for) - and only ever send a .pdf copy (nothing wrong with hyperlinks though)
Keep it interesting - try to write leading statements so you can elaborate on points of interest in an interview (it gives you something to talk about)
Keep it real - avoid generalised statements of achievement, or unqualified proclamations; anyone can write "I am a good communicator" - but in actuality, it means nothing.

after that it's a case of tailoring the content to the position & sector to which your applying.


Give it a once over then post it up here (or if you'd rather, PM) if you want it redlined.

And good luck!

The number one rule is make sure there are no grammar/spelling errors in your CV. make it perfect in this regard, including consistent formatting, always use the same spacing between sections etc.

Don't centralise text, though that's my personal preference.

I think Snowy's correct, everyone is a good communicator, but if you have a specific talent to do with communicating (you were a proof reader or you have a letter-writing qulaification or something) you should sell this attribute of yourself as strongly as any other.

Also tailor your CV to each company, if they play up or are proud of a specific component of their business, tackle this in your CV and say how you would be especially good for THEM in particular, not just any old company.


/some personal thoughts on CVs

+1 for "tailor your CV to each company"

Think about what they are looking for, and make sure you tell them it's you! Also put down in your covering letter / email why you think it's the job for you, and why you're the man for the job.

Otherwise mainly keep it neat, tidy, succinct and accurate. Your interest in antique model goats probably isn't important to them, so leave it out. Also if you mention something like "reading scientific journals" in your interests, then make sure you've read one before the interview (something I messed up on a long time ago!)

The CV is a something of a list of statements, don't go into lengthly detail. Bring everything together and add relevant detail in re cover letter, unexplained statements could make
for questions in the interview stage.


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When I interviewed at Apple, the advice I was given (and it went down a treat) was to get my CV onto one side of A4. Be really brutal, absolutely clear and concise, then talk it up in the interview.

Ah, interesting...

When did you interview there?

About 3 years ago now. Motion graphics internship.

Assuming you get an interview. There needs to be something on the CV and covering letter to make them choose you from the zillions of other candidates with 4 A levels and a degree.

And that thing should be applicable work experience in relevant roles.
The job I was going for was for someone who had a track record in the video/film industry, and understood Apple and their products.
I was the only person they interviewed.
Unfortunately the job was then given to someone else's intern internally, after I'd handed in my notice and had practically secured a flat from a friend in London for the duration of the job.
Little bit annoying, but with hindsight, I'm far from convinced the culture at Apple would've suited me. But I'm very glad I got to visit the London HQ. It's just as you'd imagine.

My list of employers would fill up one side, let alone promotions within the employer or key projects or education...

I was talking to my brother in law about this recently as I'm largely in the same boat as Oli. The B-i-L is IT Director at a cruiseline so sees a heck of a lot of CVs.

Keep it to under 3 pages. If he gets a 3 page CV it goes in the bin.
Ditto the above about spelling, punctuation and layout. It needs to be right / consistent throughout.

He has just been recruiting for a couple of project managers. The ones that wrote 'I've project managed x number of projects across these areas' didn't do well. Those that wrote 'I'm currently managagin project x with the aim of achieving <aim> with a budget of y, we're on schedule to hit z date buy may be over budget by this much' were far more effective, firstly because it gave useful information, and also because it gives a much better starting point for interviews.

OK, my CV currently has details about work I did in Sainsbury's when I was in high school and also in a student pub in Leeds when I was at university.

Should I bin them completely? They take up room that can be used with more relevant and more up to date information. Should I remove the details but keep the dates and names there?

The main thing, don't overstate your responsibilities.

Don't describe a paper round as being an 'Information Distributor for an International News Corporation' for example.

As for older jobs, that is a tricky one. If they're pretty much irrelevant I would use the space for more useful information pertinent to the position you're going for.

The BiL's advice was full details of last two positions, then just bullet points and very brief (one line ish) description of previous positions.