I have been looking at how a CV should look like but I have seen many different designs. How should a CV look?

Answer 1

there is no set form for a cv - as long as it has all the information the employer is looking for then the layout doesn't matter.

Answer 2

Name and address at the top.
Bullet points as to skills and abilities. Skew these towards the type of job you are going for i.e. most appropriate at the top.
Employment history, most recent first.
Summer jobs and volunteer work.
Degrees, educational qualifications etc.
Depending on how recently you left school, you may consider putting your grades on there.
Interesting hobbies (reading a bit dull unless considering a proof reading job),
Keep it short - MAXIMUM 3 pages, better at 2. Leave plenty of space at sides so interviewer could make notes. Spell check. Spell check. Spell check!

Covering letter to say you are sending in your cv having seen the post and why you are very interested in the post and how you would fit it.
Phone call a couple of days later asking if they've received your cv, so that it brings you to mind and your cv to the top

Answer 3

Never put your hobbies or other interests on a CV. Do not put your photograph on your CV. Personal details first, then education. A summary of your strengths and skills. Show what you can offer to an employer. Then your work history, experience.

Answer 4

There are lots of guides showing acceptable layouts. Choose one that suits you.

What's more important is that the content of your cv clearly shows the skills that you will need for the job you are applying for. You need to think carefully about this because there are always ways of presenting yourself to look better on paper, without resorting to lying about your experience.

Show someone who has experience in looking at cvs and interviewing people, and ask them for advice.

That's what I do as it is important you get the job.

Answer 5

What ever layout you use it MUST be clear and easy to read. Try to keep it to 2 pages (but don't worry if it runs onto 3 or 4 pages). If you want it to stand out use coloured paper (has always worked for me).

The layout I use is as follows:-

Personal Information - Name, Address, Date of Birth (this is bit is a MUST)

Education - Name and FULL address of ALL the schools, colleges and universities you have attended since the age of 11, Dates you were there, Qualifications and Grades

Employment - Name and FULL address, Dates, Job Titles and brief description of the job

Other Information - Software packages you know how to use and your hobbies

Referees - Name, FULL address and Job Title of 2 people you have worked with or 1 you have worked with and another person who has known you well for at least 3 years (Teacher, Doctor etc)

Answer 6

Personal Details first ie, name address telephone
personal profile (sell yourself)
education and qualifications
any courses
Employment history
hobbies and interests
then end with at least 2 referees

Hope this helps

Answer 7

check out the guide at www.careermakeover.co.uk