Simplicity is key in creating a great CV!

Over the last few months, I have seen this more than ever, with complicated formatting, photographs, multiple logos showing previous employers, certifications, and often very detailed graphics and columns which do not flow clearly and make the CV difficult to follow.

Without exception, a future potential employer has a preference for a very clean, well formatted and simply presented CV with the key information clearly outlined and easily comprehended. It should be a document that is easy to read and easily amended/improved on the part of the candidate, without having to have a graphic design qualification. The exception to this rule, can be for that exact reason only – if you are applying to a Graphics role however most employers look to see samples of your work, rather than have it displayed or represented by your Curriculum Vitae.

Another very common feature appears to be the inclusion of multiple font colours. All this might prove, is how good you are administration, but it is the content of your CV that will get you the interview, not your creativity skills for colours.

A simple guideline would be the following

• Black Text on white background only
• Skills summary/Profile summarising your key abilities.
• List your duties and responsibilities of the role particular to you – not the job description of what you did. Achievements will make your role stand out over others who worked in the same position.
• No photographs, Logos that can add to the size of your attachment considerably
• Keep the format traditional i.e. Work experience in chronological order, starting with the most recent role.
• Clear distinction from one role to another. Use new paragraphs to separate new content as well has Headings, Bullet points, and Bold/Italics.
• Dates – please be clear on dates – 2013 to 2014 could be a 2 month job or a 2 year job depending on exact start and end dates. The month as well as the year should be indicated to give a clearer view of duration of position.
• Length of CV – not a novel, but not a one pager. Be realistic and use your judgement in terms of how much information best portrays your skills/experience in the best way. 2-5 pages is fine if all of the information is relevant.
• Format – Most employers would prefer a Word Document or PDF as a second choice.
• Check your spelling and grammar. Then check it again. Then get someone else to check it. Then give it a final check! You can never do this enough times. – Bad spelling = bad candidate in the mind of the employer!
• Keep it relevant. Does your CV look at first glance like it it would be a good match for the role you are applying to? Relevant information should appear early in your CV – no one is going to turn the pages to try to find it. This should jump out immediately to ensure your CV is in the “Yes” pile.

Save your creativity and flair for your interview stage and keep the initial impression of you clean and uncomplicated to a future employer.