Creating a Resume (CV)

 

This document has no value beyond a template


Curriculum Vitae (aka – CV) is a written description of your work experience, educational background, and skills.  It is more detailed than a resume, and allows for you to effectively position yourself in the job market.  A CV helps employers determine if your skills and experience fits the role.

Your CV is one of your marketing tools that enables you to position yourself effectively in the job market. It helps employers determine whether you have the skills and experience for the role. You must be 'to the point' and concise. Below, we will provide some suggestions to consider while writing your CV. 

Some practical issues

  • brevity is essential –  Consider all of your skills, and the market
  • avoid unusual typefaces or other presentation gimmicks such as italics or exclamation marks.
  • Make it ‘pretty’ – layout is very important.
  • be a stickler for spelling and punctuation, especially with the names of people and organisations.

Your first page

This should contain your personal details such as: your name, address, phone numbers and e-mail, as well as your educational details. Qualifications should be ordered to reflect ongoing professional development. Do not go into too much detail.

Your 'Personal Profile'

The next few sentences are often what will ensure that the Employer is encouraged to read on. It is a snapshot of what you do and of everything you have achieved in your career, condensed into two or three sentences. Your profile will be what makes you stand out, and should always be looking forward – this may need to be rewritten for each job you apply for.


Example: ' A highly self motivated Systems Analyst, with 5 years experience of maintaining fixed income trading systems through the full project life-cycle using C++ and Java/J2EE. Proficient in structured OO analysis and design techniques and with recent exposure to .Net/C#.'

The second part of your profile should state your career goals and show evidence of self-analysis and forward thinking.


Example: ' I am seeking a dynamic, team focused role, where I can make more use of my management and process abilities deepen my knowledge regarding IT Controls. My medium term ambition is to move into a role that focuses on Processes and IT Controls to have a firm grasp on what is expected from these roles'

A clear objective shows you to be a candidate who has vision and is able to work toward fulfilling their goals. It shows that you are serious about getting the right role.

Your ‘Career History’

This should be written in reverse chronological order and should concentrate on the most recent achievements. Start with your current employer, position, and length of time in that role. Describe specific projects and demonstrate clear career progression by taking care to quantify your achievements.


Example: ' Over the last 18 months, I have been a senior member of a 4-person team responsible for the implementation of additional functionality to the new global fixed income trading system using Java/J2EE and, recently, .Net/C#. I am personally accountable for the rapid delivery of Repo and Asset-backed Securities trading applications using RAD techniques, including pricing and risk management functionality

Previously after completing a 12-month graduate training programme, I was responsible for the ongoing maintenance and support of the legacy trading system, using C++, Perl and Sybase.'

Avoid self-opinion at all costs and concentrate on providing quantifiable proof of your achievements.

Use of language

Start each sentence or point with a dynamic word that demonstrates your key skills (i.e. developed, implemented, supported, redesigned, created, managed, directed). Don't forget useful adjectives such as: successfully, rapidly, smoothly and profitably. Avoid bland statements like 'good team player’. 

and finally…

Interests: keep these to a maximum of 3 and avoid anything controversial or too extreme. Tightrope walking and snake charming may make you seem interesting and confident, but may appear to a client to reflect a thrill seeker who takes risks and not someone to be trusted with authority. Be honest, you never know when the interviewer may have the same interest.

References: This is a matter for personal consideration. Put 'available on request'.