What is the best way to lay out a CV and are there any templates that can be down loaded for free.?

Answer 1

check out www.prospects.ac.uk they have a section on cv's...good luck - if you need any help get in touch!

Answer 2

There are two main ways I think, chonological and functional.

With a chronological CV you focus on your work experience, listing the jobs you had and your skills you used/achievements.

With a functional CV you focus on your skills, perhaps listing each one, and giving examples of your strengths/achievements in this skill. This is useful if you have little work experience or your work experience is not completly relevant.


Start your CV with a summary - 3-4 sentences about you, the work you want, and what you can offer.

There are some examples of both types of CV here (right hand side of page): http://www.alec.co.uk/resume-examples/index.htm
and here: http://content.monster.co.uk/section1921.asp

Just google CV Examples: http://www.google.co.uk/search?hl=en&q=cv+examples&meta=

You can tailor your CV to each job you apply for, though you could argue that if your CV is right, and you are only going for jobs which really suit your skills then your shouldn't need to tailor your CV at all.

Don't forget a good cover letter is really important too.

Remember, when people first read your CV it will probably just be one of a huge pile they have to read through and so they will only scan the first third - two thirds of the first page. Get as much of your good stuff in there.

Write in the 3rd person and check your spelling and grammar!!

Good Luck!

Answer 3

Don't bother looking for a free template, they are all crap. Best to make your own. By all means look at some examples for inspiration. One think i will say is that it looks good to have your photo next to your name, address, etc. Then, have your usual

profile
education
work information

Answer 4

Agreed with above - there is no perfect format, but you can look around for inspiration.

I myself use following format:

Personal Details
Key Attributes
Work Experience
Academic Experience / Education
Professional Development (other diplomas)
Interests & Hobbies

Many employers like simple format and clean so I can recommend using cells in Word and then make then invisible - this will ensure your document will be received in the exact same format as you send it.

Answer 5

There are templates in Windows Powerpoint.

Answer 6

google search cv templates, there are so many on there