10 Do's and 10 Don'ts

For those who is thinking to prepare/repair their CV
Martin Ellis, who is the Managing Partner of SAM Headhunting UK, has posted 10 do's and 10 don'ts for CVs. Please be aware that in some countries, you are obliged by law to include certain elements or data.

As tips, they serve to give you a good idea of what an experienced recruiter has seen, likes, but also what he dislikes. Personal opinions may differ, but the below list is a good general check list before sending off your application and CV for your next dream job.

Do's
"Here are some things I'd absolutely recommend you include. They will help you get spotted among the throng of people chasing the perfect job……

1. DO use spellchecker! !! Far too many CV's have too many spelling mistakes.
2. DO make your contact details prominent – make it as easy as possible for people to get to you.
3. DO make sure you describe and quantify your work SKILLS.
4. DO make sure you describe and quantify your work EXPERIENCE.
5. DO make sure you describe and quantify your ACHIEVEMENTS.
6. DO be clear about your ambitions.
7. DO post your CV on the Internet. Sites will make you instantly available to people looking for you – and they will respect your confidentiality.
8. DO make a conscience attempt to design the layout – Clear headings and deliberate white space form a key part of design – it will help you stand out.
9. DO personalize your CV for specific job applications.
10. DO check that your career dates work accurately.

Don'ts
As a contrast, here are 10 things I'd try to avoid on a CV……
10 Do's and 10 Don'ts


1. DON'T use comic sans as your font of choice – you won't get as far as first base!
2. DON'T make your CV too long – 17 pages of tight, small type is my own personal record – they didn't even get an interview. 2 or 3 pages are about right.
3. DON'T cram in too much detail – It will serve to confuse.
4. DON'T circulate your CV without asking a friend (with opinions you trust) to give you honest feedback.
5. DON'T lie. If you're not sure – leave it out!
6. DON'T go longer than 3 months without checking your CV is updated.
7. DON'T assume headhunters like me read CV's at length – we read what grabs us.
8. DON'T assume at interview that the interviewer has memorized every detail in your CV – they won't.
9. DON'T leave out your contact details to protect your confidentiality – you will be in the same job in 10 years.
10. DON'T include pornography in your CV – Don't laugh, but some people think it will help.