First impressions count and in many cases, your CV, covering letter and/or application form will form part of your first impression with a potential employer.

It is therefore vital that you make sure these documents portray you accurately and in the best light so you can make a great impression.

  • CV writing tips :
  • The following points should be found on your CV:

 

PERSONAL DETAILS:

  • Full Name
  • Id Number
  • Address
  • Telephone Numbers
  • E-Mail Address
  • You can also add information such as your birth date, your marital status, if you have a drivers licence and the languages you speak

 

EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATION DETAILS:

  • Details of your education (course completed, institution and dates)
  • Start with the year you matriculated
  • Highlight any achievements awarded.
  • Any additional training/courses
  • Any registrations/ registration numbers etc

 

PROFESSIONAL/WORK EXPERIENCE:

  • Starting with the latest employment
  • Clearly separate all your previous employment records
  • Each employment must include: name of the Company, Position(s) and Dates of employment
  • Add a short description of your job or responsibilities – Preferably in point form. Avoid using “ I” , “Me” etc

 

REFERENCES:

  • It is important you have at least 2 referees on your CV, preferably your latest employers.
  • When adding your references, make sure to mention the company name, contact details, their name & Surname and position
  • Alternatively, you may insert: Referrers available upon request.

 

OTHER INFORMATION:

  • Highlight what computer packages you are comfortable with, skills etc

 

GENERAL TIPS

To have a maximum impact, your Curriculum vitae must be:

CLEAR:

  • Use simple and clear fonts (use the bold, italic and underline without excess)
  • Clearly separate the different parts of your CV
  • Only put in what’s necessary
  • Do not add too many colours, fonts etc.

 

EASY TO READ:

  • Use simple text – do not elaborate too much

 

UP TO DATE:

  • Always update your CV before you send it.

 

AS SHORT AS POSSIBLE

  • Include everything but highlight the most important points

 

BE HONEST

Your covering letter is as important as your CV. It can help to differentiate your application from all the others and ensure that it stands out.