Writing the Perfect CV
21 November 2012
Read by 3429 persons
The CV is often the deciding factor for getting a job interview. To get this opportunity, your CV must be as impactful as possible, and free of errors.
Presentation
To avoid your application being discarded after ten seconds, follow these presentation rules:
1. Language
Your CV should be in the same language as the job offer or the company's official language.
2. Layout
A well-structured, table format is easier to read and helps the recruiter.
3. Printing
Today, CVs are usually computer-printed (except in France, where handwritten ones are still common). Use good quality white paper (at least 100 g/m²). Choose a simple, easy-to-read font.
4. Number of Pages
Your CV shouldn't exceed two A4 pages; ideally, one page is enough.
5. Structure
Structure your CV for easy reading: use bold or italics for section headings (e.g., Personal Information, Education, Work Experience, etc.); separate sections with line spacing; avoid long sentences. Put complex explanations in a table.
6. Neatness
All documents submitted to HR—not just your CV—must be perfect and free of stains or creases.
7. Photo
If a photo is required, ensure it's high-quality: use a professional photographer. Photo booth pictures are often not good enough.
Important Content Tips:
1. Spelling
Avoid spelling mistakes! Use European date format (e.g., birthdate 05/10/1991 or 05-10-1991); if only the month and year are needed, 05/2007 is clearer than 05/07.
2. Chronology
Use chronological order, either ascending (starting with birthdate) or descending (starting with the most recent information). Descending order is the international standard.
3. Personal Information
Keep personal information to a minimum: name, address, phone number, email, birthdate, nationality (and residence permit type for non-nationals), marital status, number of children.
4. Education
List qualifications (diplomas, certificates, etc.) starting with the highest level, specifying the institution and final grade. Example: X Language Institute, Berlin; Business English and French exam (Chamber of Commerce and Industry), good grade. For broad subject areas, specify your focus. Example: Business Economics, specializing in Marketing (or Tax Law). If your thesis or dissertation is relevant to the company, mention it; otherwise, it may be confusing. Example: Applying to a major bank and your thesis is on "Strategic Alliances in Banking with regard to the merger of A and B." Mention it.
5. Work Experience
Follow the same method for your work experience. The recruiter wants to know what you do now. Include the company, location (if international), job title, and a short description. Example: Michelin Group, Clermont-Ferrand (France), role: Brand Manager, Kleber Europe.
6. Languages and IT Skills
For languages and IT skills, specify: Native Language: French; German and English: Very good (reading, writing, and speaking). This information is unnecessary if you have a translation degree, or if you're an IT professional and already know MS Office.
7. Hobbies
Mention extracurricular activities like hobbies, sports, or community involvement (e.g., treasurer at XY Tennis Club). These show responsibility, commitment, and management skills. Also mention any international trips unrelated to your job.
Example: 03/2002 to 02/2003: Volunteer work with Terre des Hommes, Namibia and Zimbabwe.
8. Conclusion
At the end, write the date and place, and sign with a pen. This concludes your CV. Avoid post-scripts or notes.
Generally, highlight your strengths honestly. Lies will be found out. Even "Hobbies: Golf" can be embarrassing if your future boss invites you to a tournament and you don't know anything about it. Avoid presenting information as weaknesses. Example: Basic knowledge of Italian (not "Unfortunately, poor knowledge of Italian"). Don't lie to fill gaps. Depending on your situation, explain "gaps" as career changes, job searching, or training.
Giselle Chaumien.
Monster.ch
Also find: The Perfect CV in 10 Lessons.
