cv / resume


It is very important to have a good CV or resume. Often the first contact you make with a prospective employer or agency is sending them your CV. Regardless of how good your professional skills are, if they don't extend to producing a high quality CV, there is a good chance your application will go no further. You won't have the chance to make a good impression at an interview if you don't get one.
 

Listed below are some of the problems with CVs received by TechStaff at times:
 
  Poor spelling and / or grammar
  Insufficient information
  Poor choice of words
  Poor choice of font / mixed fonts
  Difficult to follow
  Untidy and poorly laid out
  Unnecessary use of graphics
  Obvious embellishment
  Unusual file type
  No cover note
 
When we receive CVs with any of the above issues, we are faced with a dilemma of sorts. It could be the the applicant is a strong candidate whose only weakness is perhaps in presenting a decent CV. Sometimes it is obvious that the quality of the CV does in fact match the quality of the candidate, but we often need to examine the candidate more closely if their untidy CV contains the right stuff as far as work history and experience etc. is concerned.
 
To maximise your chances, here are some tips for your CV:

  Grammatically correct and free from spelling mistakes
  Laid out in such a way that it is neat and easy to follow
  Use a single font and consistent format throughout
  Sufficient information to enable to reader to get a good understanding of your experience etc., without getting swamped with unnecessary detail
  Concise and straightforward
  Free from annoying graphics / wingdings
  MS Word (doc) or PDF
 
Always include a cover note when sending a CV. Don't assume the recipient will know what your intentions are. Refer to comments on the registration page for recommendations.
 
Need help preparing your CV? CV Works is a division of TechStaff. They can put a professional CV together for you, usually within 48 hours of the request, and for a price somewhat lower than many of the other CV services. Of course there will be no problems understanding any technical jargon.