In this very important guide, you will learn how to write a brilliant attention-grabbing CV that is guaranteed to significantly increase your chances of getting hired. If you are applying for any job role with any organization, make sure you read this guide from start to finish, because the tips, sample CV, and cover letter will help you get hired.
To help you get hired at the first attempt, this guide will teach you the following four things:
- The purpose of a CV and cover letter and what the hiring manager will use them for. If you understand what a CV and cover letter are used for as part of the hiring process, your chances of success will increase significantly.
- Seven sections to include in your CV.
- A brilliant CV personal statement and cover letter to write down that are guaranteed to grab the attention of the hiring manager.
- Some brilliant ready-made CV templates and cover letter examples.
What is CV?
A CV, or Curriculum Vitae, is a document that provides a detailed summary of a person’s education, work experience, skills, certificates, achievements and accomplishments. It is typically used in job applications, academic settings, and various professional contexts to showcase an individual’s qualifications and suitability for a particular role or opportunity.
A CV should ideally be no more than 2-3 sides of A4. It must be free from grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes. Now, along with your cover letter, the CV is the first thing a hiring manager will read to quickly determine whether you have the necessary skills, experience, and passion to do the job properly. And a cover letter is a single-page professional letter that you submit along with your CV when applying for any job.
Cover Letter
A COVER LETTER is a single-page professional letter you submit with your CV when applying for any job. The cover letter is a piece of persuasive writing that shows your passion for the job and why you have applied.
Seven Sections to Include in Your CV
Below are the seven sections to include in your CV to make it appealing to any hiring manager:
- CV SECTION 1: CONTACT DETAILS
At the top of your CV, include your name, email address, and direct contact number. Make sure the answerphone message assigned to your contact number sounds professional. If the hiring manager calls you to invite you along to an interview, and they get an unprofessional answerphone message, they may hang up.
- CV SECTION 2: PERSONAL STATEMENT
This is one of the most important parts of your CV. Your personal statement is a short introductory statement that outlines your key skills and qualities and why you will be a great fit for the job you have applied for. The personal statement should explain your passion for the role and include details as to why you stand out from the competition. Your personal statement should be between 200 and 300 words long.
- CV SECTION 3: EDUCATION BACKGROUND
In this part of your CV, include details of the schools, colleges, and universities you have attended, subjects studied, and grades attained. Write these in chronological order – this means putting your most recent education achievements first.
- CV SECTION 4: WORK EXPERIENCE
In this next important part of your CV, you should include details of, again in chronological order, your work history. Make sure you include the name of the employer, the position you held, and brief details of your main responsibilities. In this section, you can also include details of voluntary work and work experience placements.
- CV SECTION 5: ACHIEVEMENTS
In this next section of your CV, write down brief details in bullet points of any key achievements you have gained in life so far. Ideally, these will come from previous work positions, but you can also include details of professional certifications and training courses completed, honors and awards, languages, sporting achievements, and charity work.
- CV SECTION 6: HOBBIES AND INTERESTS
In this next section of your CV, write down brief details, again in bullet points, of your hobbies and interests. Good hobbies and interests include physical fitness activities, team sports, playing musical instruments, being a part of community groups and societies, and reading to name just a few.
- CV SECTION 7: REFERENCES
A reference is a professional individual willing to vouch for your credibility as an employee and your ability to do the job competently in the role you have applied for.
90% of candidates put ‘REFERENCES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST’ on this section of their CV, but this is not actually 100% good. Including the names of two people who are willing to act as a reference for you is good. Make sure you ask their permission first before including them on your CV. If the hiring manager sees the names of two people who will vouch for your professionalism, it will definitely increase the chances of you getting invited to an interview.
SAMPLE CV
PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE
Below is a brilliant example personal statement that is guaranteed to grab the attention of the hiring manager. This is a Personal statement for all job roles.
“I am a highly motivated and results-driven professional with a diverse background and a proven track record of success. My passion for this industry has driven me to continuously seek opportunities for growth and development, making me a versatile candidate for a wide range of job roles.
I have a track record of achievement, which I will replicate in this position. In my last role, I was praised by my manager for my flexibility with my job description and how I contributed new ideas to help the company grow.
I am known for my exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, which enable me to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and convey complex ideas in a clear and concise manner. I thrive under pressure and am adept at prioritizing tasks to meet important deadlines.
Furthermore, my commitment to continuous improvement drives me to stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies. I am confident that my adaptability, teamwork, and dedication make me a valuable asset to any organization.
I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and expertise to a forward-thinking company like [Insert Company Name].
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of attending an interview where I can discuss how my background aligns with your needs and how I can make a positive impact on your team.”
COVER LETTER FOR CVs and RESUMES FOR JOB APPLICATIONS
Dear Sir/Madam,
RE: Application for [INSERT NAME OF JOB ROLE]
I am attaching my CV supporting my application to work at [INSERT COMPANY NAME] in the position of [INSERT NAME OF POSITION].
Having studied the job description carefully, I believe my skills, qualities, knowledge, and experience will empower me to contribute positively to your team and give you a great return on my salary.
While I respect and appreciate that you will have many strong candidates, I genuinely believe my passion for this industry, strong worth ethnic, and values that align with your company’s make me an ideal candidate.
I am seeking long-term employment with your company. My commercial awareness and flexibility with my job description mean I can add value to your team and help you achieve your commercial goals.
Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward for hearing from you soon.
Yours faithfully,
[INSERT YOUR NAME]
CONTACT TELEPHONE NUMBER