Brainstorming for Your CV: How to Get Started
Although the CV is not an excessively complicated document, it can sometimes be difficult to begin the drafting process if you are unsure of what types of information to include. If can be useful and effective to spend time brainstorming before worrying about the formatting and structure of the document. The following ideas offer useful strategies for the beginning stages of CV drafting.
Adapt to the Job Type
It is not abnormal to have a slightly different CV for each job that you apply for. When you find a potential job opening, you will want to make sure you read the description several times because it could provide clues as to what qualities the company values most. Additionally, it is useful to conduct research on the company by visiting their website to see if you can align yourself with the goals and mantras of the organization. Some of your accomplishments and experiences may be more relevant that others, and it is therefore important that you include information that is specifically applicable to the job.
Outline Your Experiences and Accomplishments
As you begin to make a list of your previous jobs and experiences, you may prod your memory for accomplishments that have temporarily slipped your mind. It can also be useful to list the specific tasks you completed while working these jobs, even if you do not end up using all of this writing in your CV. Having a list in front of you that addresses your entire employment history can help you to choose the experiences that you want to highlight as most relevant to the position you hope to be offered.
Outline Your Skills
Reflect upon skills you have acquired over the years, regardless of whether you think they are relevant to your application. In the same way that listing your experiences and accomplishments can jog your memory, listing your skills can help you come up with ideas you may not have initially considered. Some skills to consider while brainstorming include foreign language proficiencies and computer skills.
Narrow Your Information
After you have produced a thorough list of your experiences, accomplishments, and skills, you will want to refer back to the job description and make decisions as to which components of your brainstorming session will be most applicable to the job you want to receive. Although CVs can be several pages long, you want to be careful to avoid providing too much information because employers may not take the time to read a particularly lengthy CV. Therefore, highlighting your most relevant information can help with keeping the CV concise and still producing a strong document.
Having a pool of information you’ve written about yourself can be useful when drafting a CV. You may want to keep your brainstorming lists and add to them in the future so that you will not have to start fresh when composing a CV for a different job. Drafting your CV should become a much easier process after taking the time to brainstorm and remember different elements of your life that are applicable to your future employment. Visit Build-a-Career for further advice or to apply for jobs.
Sunday 28 August 2016
CV or Resume?
The CV Versus the Resume
Although there are similarities between the structure of the resume and the structure of the curriculum vitae, it is important to recognize that they are separate documents to be used for different purposes. Your future employer may ask you to submit either of these documents or both of them, so an understanding of how they differ from one another is necessary.
Job Type
In the United States, it is common to submit a resume with most types of jobs. A curriculum vitae is often required for jobs that are academic or scholarly in nature, such as a teaching position at a university or a position that requires significant research by the employee. Some professional jobs outside of academia may require the submission of a CV. If the job description does not note the documents applicants should provide, it is advisable to ask the employer. Having a working draft of a CV and a resume is a great idea for those who are looking for a new job.
Information Included
There is a fair amount of overlap between the information provided in a resume and information provided in a CV. Both types of documents should include contact information, such as the applicant’s name, mailing address, phone number, and email address. Furthermore, your relevant work experiences and education should also be included in both the CV and resume. One of the major differences between the two is that the CV generally includes much more information than the resume. Your CV may contain a brief description of previous jobs as well as any awards or special achievements that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Since a CV is usually academically-oriented, it is appropriate to include conference presentations and publications. Most CVs also include a short use of references the potential employer can contact to learn more about the applicant. Keep in mind that the contact information for the references should also be included.
Length
While a resume is generally a page or two in length, a CV is usually longer than two pages. Both documents should be effectively organized into lists, but the CV generally requires much more information. For example, a CV might contain additional qualifications, awards, and accomplishments. Although some of the information may overlap between the two documents, the CV provides a more thorough representation of the applicant and may include more descriptions than a resume. Furthermore, both documents have similar structures and should be meticulously organized so that they will look professional.
Job seekers will want to consider the differences between a resume and a CV while carrying out the application process. Although the two documents should have some overlap, the information provided in the CV is more extensive and thorough, especially in terms of academic pursuits and accomplishments. Examples of resumes and CVs in different job fields can be found by briefly searching online; a visual example of each type of example is particularly useful to individuals in the beginning stages of the application process. Visit Build-a-Career for further advice or to apply for jobs.
Although there are similarities between the structure of the resume and the structure of the curriculum vitae, it is important to recognize that they are separate documents to be used for different purposes. Your future employer may ask you to submit either of these documents or both of them, so an understanding of how they differ from one another is necessary.
Job Type
In the United States, it is common to submit a resume with most types of jobs. A curriculum vitae is often required for jobs that are academic or scholarly in nature, such as a teaching position at a university or a position that requires significant research by the employee. Some professional jobs outside of academia may require the submission of a CV. If the job description does not note the documents applicants should provide, it is advisable to ask the employer. Having a working draft of a CV and a resume is a great idea for those who are looking for a new job.
Information Included
There is a fair amount of overlap between the information provided in a resume and information provided in a CV. Both types of documents should include contact information, such as the applicant’s name, mailing address, phone number, and email address. Furthermore, your relevant work experiences and education should also be included in both the CV and resume. One of the major differences between the two is that the CV generally includes much more information than the resume. Your CV may contain a brief description of previous jobs as well as any awards or special achievements that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Since a CV is usually academically-oriented, it is appropriate to include conference presentations and publications. Most CVs also include a short use of references the potential employer can contact to learn more about the applicant. Keep in mind that the contact information for the references should also be included.
Length
While a resume is generally a page or two in length, a CV is usually longer than two pages. Both documents should be effectively organized into lists, but the CV generally requires much more information. For example, a CV might contain additional qualifications, awards, and accomplishments. Although some of the information may overlap between the two documents, the CV provides a more thorough representation of the applicant and may include more descriptions than a resume. Furthermore, both documents have similar structures and should be meticulously organized so that they will look professional.
Job seekers will want to consider the differences between a resume and a CV while carrying out the application process. Although the two documents should have some overlap, the information provided in the CV is more extensive and thorough, especially in terms of academic pursuits and accomplishments. Examples of resumes and CVs in different job fields can be found by briefly searching online; a visual example of each type of example is particularly useful to individuals in the beginning stages of the application process. Visit Build-a-Career for further advice or to apply for jobs.
CV Writing Basics
Writing Your CV: The Basics
A curriculum vitae, or CV, is a working document that is often requested when applying for scholarly positions, such as a university professor or a researcher. Additionally, some graduate schools or scholarship programs will request a CV as a part of the initial application. The purpose of the CV is to provide the employer with information regarding the experiences and accomplishments of your academic life.
Although there are some commonalities among resumes and CVs, a CV is generally lengthier than a resume because it provides much more information. While a resume is generally only a page or two long, a CV may contain more than three pages. Furthermore, a CV is also different from a resume because it is specifically rooted in academic experiences and should be catered to a scholarly audience, while a resume may be more general in nature because it can be used for most types of professional jobs.
When writing your CV, you will want to make sure you include experiences and accomplishments that are relevant to the type of position you are applying for. If you do not take your audience into consideration, the employer may not believe that you are the ideal candidate for the job. Regardless of the position, you will want to make sure you include:
* Contact information (name, email, phone number)
* Education (both undergraduate and graduate, if relevant)
* Work experience
* Research projects
* Conference presentations
* Any other service you have conducted within your field
* Recommenders and their contact information
There are many different styles in which a CV can be formatted, so it is advisable to search for sample CVs of people who are in your field. Additionally, it may be useful to gather advice from others at your institution, if you are a graduate student, or from other connections you may have with people who are working similar jobs.
One of the most basic components of CV writing, regardless of the field, is the ability to describe your accomplishments in a very concise manner. Although the CV is longer than the resume, it is still important to list your information in a way that is clear and easy for the employer to read. Additionally, you will want to make sure you choose your font and word size wisely. Employers may not bother to finish reading a CV that is organized ineffectively or difficult to read.
Writing a CV may seem like a daunting task, but it is necessary in certain fields. Beginners may want to share their drafts will others who are familiar with the line of work or who have already been hired for similar positions. If you are in graduate school or even an undergraduate, you will want to begin keeping track of your accomplishments, research, presentations, and teaching experiences so that you will not need to search for this information when you begin to write. With the amount of information available online, you may want to consider looking at several CV examples before you even begin to write. Visit Build-a-Career for further advice or to apply for jobs.
A curriculum vitae, or CV, is a working document that is often requested when applying for scholarly positions, such as a university professor or a researcher. Additionally, some graduate schools or scholarship programs will request a CV as a part of the initial application. The purpose of the CV is to provide the employer with information regarding the experiences and accomplishments of your academic life.
Although there are some commonalities among resumes and CVs, a CV is generally lengthier than a resume because it provides much more information. While a resume is generally only a page or two long, a CV may contain more than three pages. Furthermore, a CV is also different from a resume because it is specifically rooted in academic experiences and should be catered to a scholarly audience, while a resume may be more general in nature because it can be used for most types of professional jobs.
When writing your CV, you will want to make sure you include experiences and accomplishments that are relevant to the type of position you are applying for. If you do not take your audience into consideration, the employer may not believe that you are the ideal candidate for the job. Regardless of the position, you will want to make sure you include:
* Contact information (name, email, phone number)
* Education (both undergraduate and graduate, if relevant)
* Work experience
* Research projects
* Conference presentations
* Any other service you have conducted within your field
* Recommenders and their contact information
There are many different styles in which a CV can be formatted, so it is advisable to search for sample CVs of people who are in your field. Additionally, it may be useful to gather advice from others at your institution, if you are a graduate student, or from other connections you may have with people who are working similar jobs.
One of the most basic components of CV writing, regardless of the field, is the ability to describe your accomplishments in a very concise manner. Although the CV is longer than the resume, it is still important to list your information in a way that is clear and easy for the employer to read. Additionally, you will want to make sure you choose your font and word size wisely. Employers may not bother to finish reading a CV that is organized ineffectively or difficult to read.
Writing a CV may seem like a daunting task, but it is necessary in certain fields. Beginners may want to share their drafts will others who are familiar with the line of work or who have already been hired for similar positions. If you are in graduate school or even an undergraduate, you will want to begin keeping track of your accomplishments, research, presentations, and teaching experiences so that you will not need to search for this information when you begin to write. With the amount of information available online, you may want to consider looking at several CV examples before you even begin to write. Visit Build-a-Career for further advice or to apply for jobs.
CV Formatting Tips
Formatting a CV
Most academic positions require applicants to provide a curriculum vitae that describes their educational experiences, research projects, and accomplishments that are relevant to the job. Some professional positions outside of the academy may request a CV as well, so it is important to know how to format the document in a manner that is clear, efficient, and attractive to potential employers. You will want to search for sample CVs within your field when beginning to format your own because there may be slight differences in the formatting of CVs for different types of jobs. Nevertheless, there are several components of CV writing that can be addressed from a more general standpoint for those who would like to keep a draft that can be adapted for different purposes.
Basic Formatting
A CV should be formatted using a word processing program. It can be exported to a .pdf document upon completion to ensure that the formatting will not change when opened on a different computer. 1 inch margins are appropriate, and Times New Roman is a font that is generally accepted, as it is easy to read. 12 point font is a standard size, with slightly larger headings where necessary.
Headings
Make sure you provide your contact information (name, address, email) near the top of the document so that the employer does not have to search through the document for this vital information. You will also want to make sure you write “Curriculum Vitae” near the top of the page so that it is easy to identify the purpose of the document. Subheadings are usually provided throughout the document in order to divide the information into sections. Headings may be bolded and/or larger in size than the descriptions. Some headings you may want to include are: education, work experience, research presentations, awards, published papers, and references.
Content
It is important that the content of the CV is concise. Instead of writing complete sentences, you may want to consider using a strategy known as “gapping.” Gapping is more or less providing information in the shortest way possible, but without excluding what is most important. For example, you will want to present the courses you have taught in a list format rather than through narrative writing. Furthermore, it is important to provide at least one space between each heading so that it will be easy to recognize when you have transitioned to a new entry. CVs that are organized in an effective manner are more likely to catch the attention of employers.
These tips only provide general information on formatting a CV, so it is important to search for sample CVs that are specific to your field of work while you are beginning to format your own CV. Also, remember to proofread your CV before you submit it so that you will not be disqualified based on simple errors. CV writing is a process, and it is possible that your formatting as well as included information may have to be adapted for different jobs. Visit Build-a-Career for further advice or to apply for jobs.
Most academic positions require applicants to provide a curriculum vitae that describes their educational experiences, research projects, and accomplishments that are relevant to the job. Some professional positions outside of the academy may request a CV as well, so it is important to know how to format the document in a manner that is clear, efficient, and attractive to potential employers. You will want to search for sample CVs within your field when beginning to format your own because there may be slight differences in the formatting of CVs for different types of jobs. Nevertheless, there are several components of CV writing that can be addressed from a more general standpoint for those who would like to keep a draft that can be adapted for different purposes.
Basic Formatting
A CV should be formatted using a word processing program. It can be exported to a .pdf document upon completion to ensure that the formatting will not change when opened on a different computer. 1 inch margins are appropriate, and Times New Roman is a font that is generally accepted, as it is easy to read. 12 point font is a standard size, with slightly larger headings where necessary.
Headings
Make sure you provide your contact information (name, address, email) near the top of the document so that the employer does not have to search through the document for this vital information. You will also want to make sure you write “Curriculum Vitae” near the top of the page so that it is easy to identify the purpose of the document. Subheadings are usually provided throughout the document in order to divide the information into sections. Headings may be bolded and/or larger in size than the descriptions. Some headings you may want to include are: education, work experience, research presentations, awards, published papers, and references.
Content
It is important that the content of the CV is concise. Instead of writing complete sentences, you may want to consider using a strategy known as “gapping.” Gapping is more or less providing information in the shortest way possible, but without excluding what is most important. For example, you will want to present the courses you have taught in a list format rather than through narrative writing. Furthermore, it is important to provide at least one space between each heading so that it will be easy to recognize when you have transitioned to a new entry. CVs that are organized in an effective manner are more likely to catch the attention of employers.
These tips only provide general information on formatting a CV, so it is important to search for sample CVs that are specific to your field of work while you are beginning to format your own CV. Also, remember to proofread your CV before you submit it so that you will not be disqualified based on simple errors. CV writing is a process, and it is possible that your formatting as well as included information may have to be adapted for different jobs. Visit Build-a-Career for further advice or to apply for jobs.
CV Mistakes
Common CV mistakes to Avoid
Writing an effective CV can significantly improve your chances of being selected for a job. Although there are not necessarily rules for how to write a CV, it is important to make sure you avoid making unnecessary mistakes. This article lists some common mistakes of CV writing that you will want to take into consideration as you begin to compose your CV. The actual structure and content of the CV may vary depending on the field of work; however, the tips below can be applied to a variety of lines of work.
Length
A typical CV is about two pages in length. Although composing a lengthy CV may seem like a way to get a competitive edge, many employers do not have time to read through page after page of information. Therefore, it is a good idea to include the most relevant information. Your CV should be catered specifically to the job you are applying for, so be sure to take your audience into consideration! One warning to keep in mind is that you will not want to have gaps in your dates when listing your employment experiences. Employers may question whether you were unemployed during these time periods and wonder why that was the case.
Word Choice
It is unsurprising that many job applicants describe themselves as “motivated” and “intelligent,” but these words mean very little if they are not supported by convincing evidence. Try to make yourself stand out by describing your experiences and accomplishments in a manner that shows you have these qualities. Additionally, it is important to avoid being excessively wordy. Strong CVs contain precise language, and your ability to effectively condense your experiences will help you come across as organized. Sometimes, writing concisely takes much more time and care than writing superfluously.
Design
The font and size of your CV should be consistent throughout the entire document. While slightly larger headings may help with organization, having more than two font sizes can be extremely distracting. Additionally, it is advisable to choose a font that is clear and easy to read. In relation, make sure you thoroughly check for grammar and spelling mistakes. This will require you to read and reread your CV several times to be sure you have not skipped over any errors.
Empty Content
When describing your work experiences, make sure you find a way to connect them specifically with the job you are applying for. In some circumstances, it may be necessary to list your responsibilities; however, be careful about listing the obvious when you could be describing the significance of these experiences. This will give your content much more depth than a simple explanation of the duties performed.
Taking these elements into consideration could help bring your current CV to the next level or serve as a preventative measure for those who are composing their first CV document. The CV is one of the most important elements of a job application, and you will not want to compromise your chances by making classic mistakes that could have been prevented. Visit Build-a-Career for further advice or to apply for jobs,
Writing an effective CV can significantly improve your chances of being selected for a job. Although there are not necessarily rules for how to write a CV, it is important to make sure you avoid making unnecessary mistakes. This article lists some common mistakes of CV writing that you will want to take into consideration as you begin to compose your CV. The actual structure and content of the CV may vary depending on the field of work; however, the tips below can be applied to a variety of lines of work.
Length
A typical CV is about two pages in length. Although composing a lengthy CV may seem like a way to get a competitive edge, many employers do not have time to read through page after page of information. Therefore, it is a good idea to include the most relevant information. Your CV should be catered specifically to the job you are applying for, so be sure to take your audience into consideration! One warning to keep in mind is that you will not want to have gaps in your dates when listing your employment experiences. Employers may question whether you were unemployed during these time periods and wonder why that was the case.
Word Choice
It is unsurprising that many job applicants describe themselves as “motivated” and “intelligent,” but these words mean very little if they are not supported by convincing evidence. Try to make yourself stand out by describing your experiences and accomplishments in a manner that shows you have these qualities. Additionally, it is important to avoid being excessively wordy. Strong CVs contain precise language, and your ability to effectively condense your experiences will help you come across as organized. Sometimes, writing concisely takes much more time and care than writing superfluously.
Design
The font and size of your CV should be consistent throughout the entire document. While slightly larger headings may help with organization, having more than two font sizes can be extremely distracting. Additionally, it is advisable to choose a font that is clear and easy to read. In relation, make sure you thoroughly check for grammar and spelling mistakes. This will require you to read and reread your CV several times to be sure you have not skipped over any errors.
Empty Content
When describing your work experiences, make sure you find a way to connect them specifically with the job you are applying for. In some circumstances, it may be necessary to list your responsibilities; however, be careful about listing the obvious when you could be describing the significance of these experiences. This will give your content much more depth than a simple explanation of the duties performed.
Taking these elements into consideration could help bring your current CV to the next level or serve as a preventative measure for those who are composing their first CV document. The CV is one of the most important elements of a job application, and you will not want to compromise your chances by making classic mistakes that could have been prevented. Visit Build-a-Career for further advice or to apply for jobs,
Advice for improving your CV
A competitive CV can be a highly significant component of a job application, so it is important to spend time revising, editing, and updating your document to increase your likelihood of being chosen for a position. Even if you already have a solid CV, you may want to consider reviewing these basic tips for improving your document.
Editing
Although it may seem basic, it is important to remember to proofread your CV several times before you submit it. Spelling and grammatical errors are unattractive to employers and may even seem suggestive of a lack of professionalism. It is advisable to have another person read over your CV as well because it is easy to miss errors when you have reread the same document repeatedly. Reading the document aloud can help you to hear any awkward structures that need to be reworded.
Formatting
CVs should be formatted in a manner that is easy to read and professional in nature. Headings should be clear and concise, and sections should be broken up so that one section is not excessively longer than another. The font needs to be extremely clear and large enough to easily read from a computer screen. Furthermore, it is important to maintain a consistency with sizing, bolding, and the presentation of titles. This is a simple way to make your CV look professional.
Audience
You may want to consider adapting your CV to the specific job you are hoping to receive. This will make your CV stand out to employers, and it can help affirm that you are a perfect match for the job. Make sure your formatting and word choices are appropriate for the given field; furthermore, you will want to exemplify all of the experiences and accomplishments you have that are specifically applicable to the job. Make sure you are aware with the language of your field because the use of buzzwords that are currently popular in your field are likely to catch the attention of employers.
References
In the same way that it is important to adjust your language and formatting for different audiences, you may want to consider gathering a multitude of references so that you can list several for each job that you apply for. Try to choose referrers who are in the field you are entering or who can attest to your work specifically. For example, if you are applying for a job in education, a referee who has seen you teach or worked with you through your educational pursuits may be a more effective choice in comparison to a past employer for an unrelated job. Since many employers actually contact your referrers, make sure you choose people who you have been involved with on a recent basis who can attest to your qualifications.
Submitting a quality CV can greatly improve your chances of being chosen for your dream job. While these tips are by no means exhaustive, they offer useful advice to point you in the right direction toward creating a very effective CV. Visit build-a-career for further advice.
Editing
Although it may seem basic, it is important to remember to proofread your CV several times before you submit it. Spelling and grammatical errors are unattractive to employers and may even seem suggestive of a lack of professionalism. It is advisable to have another person read over your CV as well because it is easy to miss errors when you have reread the same document repeatedly. Reading the document aloud can help you to hear any awkward structures that need to be reworded.
Formatting
CVs should be formatted in a manner that is easy to read and professional in nature. Headings should be clear and concise, and sections should be broken up so that one section is not excessively longer than another. The font needs to be extremely clear and large enough to easily read from a computer screen. Furthermore, it is important to maintain a consistency with sizing, bolding, and the presentation of titles. This is a simple way to make your CV look professional.
Audience
You may want to consider adapting your CV to the specific job you are hoping to receive. This will make your CV stand out to employers, and it can help affirm that you are a perfect match for the job. Make sure your formatting and word choices are appropriate for the given field; furthermore, you will want to exemplify all of the experiences and accomplishments you have that are specifically applicable to the job. Make sure you are aware with the language of your field because the use of buzzwords that are currently popular in your field are likely to catch the attention of employers.
References
In the same way that it is important to adjust your language and formatting for different audiences, you may want to consider gathering a multitude of references so that you can list several for each job that you apply for. Try to choose referrers who are in the field you are entering or who can attest to your work specifically. For example, if you are applying for a job in education, a referee who has seen you teach or worked with you through your educational pursuits may be a more effective choice in comparison to a past employer for an unrelated job. Since many employers actually contact your referrers, make sure you choose people who you have been involved with on a recent basis who can attest to your qualifications.
Submitting a quality CV can greatly improve your chances of being chosen for your dream job. While these tips are by no means exhaustive, they offer useful advice to point you in the right direction toward creating a very effective CV. Visit build-a-career for further advice.
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