CV tips

We like to help and make a difference

At Prestige Recruitment Specialists we like to help and make a difference.

We appreciate that some people are not sure how to write a CV and what to include. It is essential when applying for any jobs that you have an up-to-date CV which is ready to go at the press of a button.

When writing a CV, the key factor to remember is that the CV represents you and it is the best way to let a prospective employer know who you are and what you are capable of.

Remember you never get a second chance to create a first impression.

Your CV should provide a comprehensive summary of your work history and education, and must highlight your qualities. The layout should be clear and concise: let your experience speak for itself.

In order to offer some assistance, we have compiled a few easy steps in helping you create the right CV and attract the attention of a prospective employer or a recruiter; a list of tried and trusted methods, which have helped thousands of people create a winning CV.

1. Keep it real!

Usually a CV should be no more than two A4 pages. Employers spend, an average, just 8 seconds looking at any one CV. So don’t send them a long winded essay otherwise it will end up on the no pile. Bullet point where necessary, and include daily activities and skills used within the role.

2. Include a personal statement

This is your chance to describe to a prospective employer your professional personality and a brief overview of your main skills and achievements. This is usually the opener to your CV, and your first chance to make that all important impression.

3. Separate your sections

Make sure you use a clear layout to separate different sections of your CV including your Personal Statement, Employment History, Education, Skills Set, Hobbies and Interests.

4. Make sure everything is in chronological order

When writing your CV and placing everything in their categories make sure you detail your present employment and work back chronologically through your previous employment. The same applies for education.

5. Don't leave gaps

By leaving obvious gaps in your employment on your CV, it immediately makes employers suspicious and they won't give you the benefit of the doubt. If you have been out of work it can be a worry but just be positive and honest.   

6. Keep it current

You should keep your CV up-to-date whether you’re looking for a job or not. Every time something significant occurs in your career, record it so you don't later forget something that could be important.

7. The error of your ways

Employers DO look for mistakes on CVs, so make sure that your spelling and punctuation are perfect. If you're unsure then use a spellchecker but also ask someone else to double-check what you have written. Re read your CV to ensure that you have not made any mistakes.

8. Tell the truth

Obvious lies on your CV can land you in trouble especially if your employers check your background and references. Also, during your interview you may get quizzed and asked questions regarding what you have said, and if you can’t answer, then it will be an awkward and embarrassing moment for you. Honesty is the best policy at all times. 

9. Make it look good

We live in a world where image is everything, and that also goes for your CV. Take some time to CV presentable and appealing. Use bullet points and keep sentences short. Use the graphic design trick of leaving plenty of white space around text and between categories to make the layout easy on the eye. 

10. Be nice to your recruiter

Your recruiter has hundreds of CV's to review every day. We will select CV's that are easy to read, please don't put your CV in text boxes, and keep it on Microsoft Word as much as possible. Be clear and include details in your every day work, it might be the key skill we are looking for and it may just get you the job!

  • Group Head Office
  • Prestige House
  • 12 Bowlalley Lane
  • Hull
  • East Yorkshire
  • HU1 1XR
  • T: 01482 212581
  • F: 01482 212 880
  • Leeds Branch
  • 64 Wellington Street
  • Leeds
  • LS1 2EE
  • T: 0113 2436279
  • T: 0113 2458604
  • Dereham Branch
  • 15 Aldiss Court
  • Dereham
  • Norfolk
  • East Anglia
  • NR19 1TS
  • T: 01362 293120
  • F: 01362 690876
  • 7 Northumberland Street
  • Huddersfield
  • HD1 1RL
  • T: 01484 905199
  • Specialists in:
  • Ex-offender Employment Experts
  • The Quadrant
  • Nuart Road
  • Beeston
  • Nottingham
  • NG9 2NH
  • T: 0115 7043391
  • Specialists in:
  • Providing staff to the criminal justice sector

Prestige Recruitment LTD. Registered in England No: 04098721.

Our People Are Your People   Instagram Icon

Web design Hull by Eyeweb

×