Effective CVs
How to Write an Effective CV
Create a CV that gets results
You do not get a second chance to make a first impression. As your official introduction, your CV format should look its professional best.
Before CV writing begins, research a few sample CV formats. The CV tips below demonstrate how to make a CV visually appealing and effective.
- Generally, CVs are two pages in length; CV Summaries are one page.
- Print your CV in black ink on high quality white paper. Do this for cover letters well.
- Use an easy to read CV format; peruse sample CVs for design ideas.
- Do not make margins too wide or too narrow.
- Choose a CV format that allows you to headline key achievements.
- Information that shows you are a great fit for the job should be placed toward the top.
- Use bold type appropriately. Use underlining sparingly, if at all.
- Arial and Times New Roman are standard typefaces on most business computers. Avoid unusual typefaces.
- Use a font size of 11 points or above.
- Edit lengthy paragraphs until they are concise and read fluidly.
- Include detailed contact information on the first page.
- Start employment history with your current or most recent job and work backwards.
- Combine long-form copy with logically placed, thoughtfully written bullet points.
- When listing actions, always describe results or outcomes, and quantify them whenever possible.
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