How to write a CV

A curriculum vitae, commonly known as a CV, is a document that summarizes your work and education experience in an attempt to market yourself for a potential employee.

Depending on the format of your CV, you must have your contact details at the top of the CV. Some put it in a header, some put it on the side; but it must be visible. It is not necessary to add your personal address on the CV. you can add just the city and state. Do not add your birthday, unless it is a job that requires the employee knowing your age.

Give a short description of yourself, also called an Objective Summary. It gives the employee a snapshot of who you are and the skills you possess as a candidate. This part must be 100 words or less, using words that best describe you and highlight your skills. If you have a strong background in the field, expand on your experience within that field.

Read the job description carefully then include your work experience that will be relevant to the position. For example, if you want to apply for a personal assistant position, mention that you worked with people before and have good communication skills if you have. Mention skills that will make you stand out as a candidate.

In this section list the courses you completed starting with the highest level. List the year you graduated in, the degree, the institution and any awards and honors you may have attained. If you have a dissertation, you may mention it here.

You can share any industry awards, professional certifications, professional affiliations, any conferences attended, or any additional training attained. If you are a recent graduate mention your hobbies and interests and any projects, you were involved in.