Written applications and CVs
- For general advice on applications and CVs, read the section on the Careers website which covers this topic.
- For specific advice for mature students, check the Prospects and Realworld websites
Tips for creating a professional CV
- There is no one perfect way to create a CV, different layouts will suit different needs. You might, for example decide to put your work or professional experience first, before education.
- Produce a concise CV that clearly outlines your relevant experience. Try to match your experience to the job requirements, and be prepared to produce more than one CV. It is essential to research each employer you apply to.
- Keep it short - usually 2 pages
- Put your most relevant and or recent information first
- Your CV should contain (not necessarily in this order):
Name and contact details,
Education (most recent first, no need for primary school info),
Work experience (you can separate the most relevant experience from other experience if necessary),
Other Skills - Computing Skills etc, name the specific packages you can use, driving licence, languages etc. Interests,
2 referees (it's also acceptable to say that references are available upon request)
- What you should leave out:
Photos
Any sort of failure (exams, business, marriage etc)
Age, weight, health, religion, marital status
Title pages, binders and folders
Salary Information (unless asked for)
Sample CV
Cover letters
A well thought out cover letter should always accompany your CV
Structure of cover letter:
- 1st paragraph should state who you are, what position you are applying for and where you saw the job ad
- 2nd paragraph should state why you are applying for the job, and what you know about the organisation
- 3rd paragraph is where you draw attention to the key skills and relevant information from your CV
- 4th paragraph - state your availability for interview and that you're looking forward to their reply
Sample cover letter
Interviews
- For general tips on how to prepare for interviews, refer to the Interview section on the main website.
- For information and advice specific to mature students, check the Prospects website.
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