How to Prepare a CV

A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating an Effective Curriculum Vitae

Posted by Hüseyin Sekmenoğlu on September 17, 2012 Career & Interview Prep

The word CV comes from Latin: Curriculum Vitae, meaning "course of life." In everyday language, we call it a résumé or simply a CV. But the name is not the point. What matters is that the person reading your CV understands who you are.

Your CV is your advertisement to sell yourself to a potential employer.


🚫 Avoid Copy-Paste and Be Unique

Never copy and paste from others. Try to make your CV stand out with something different. Your CV should be short, clear and simple but also interesting enough to keep the reader engaged. It should show not only what you have done in the past but also how you will contribute to future work.

You must clearly and passionately communicate who you are, what you do and what your goals are.

Prepare for interviews and find creative ways to present yourself.


📋 What Sections Should Your CV Include?

  • Personal information

  • Work experience

  • Skills and abilities

  • Education background

  • References

  • Personal profile and interests (placed last)


📝 Details for Each Section

Personal Information

Include your full name, address, phone number and email. Place this section clearly at the top of your CV so it is easy to find.


Work Experience

Start from your current job and move backwards. For each position, write where you worked, what you did and most importantly, describe your responsibilities. Work experience should appear on the first page as it is your main advertisement. Extra details can be added later.


Skills and Abilities

List your skills in order of importance and strength. Do not include irrelevant or weak skills. Mention responsibilities related to your skills because responsibility is an important ability.


Education Background

List your education starting from the most recent. Include special projects, courses and certificates to gain extra points.


References

Include one or two names. These should be easy to contact, be your superiors and speak well about you.


Personal Profile and Interests

Although this section may not seem important to you, it matters to employers. Keep it last. Briefly describe your personality, age, interests and other strengths without exaggeration.


💡 Final Tip

Do not put everything about yourself in your CV. Leave some topics for the interview so you have more to talk about in person.