FAQs on CVs
When writing our CV, we all get to a point where we have questions that we can't answer. Below are some answers to some common questions.
Why do I need a CV?
A CV is used as an introduction to the recruiter. It gives them information about yourself to help decide if they should offer you an interview or not. Your CV should be used to create a good first impression and to sell yourself!
What type of paper should I use to print out my CV?
Really depends on who you are going to send your CV to. If it's a recruitment agency then normal, good quality, white paper is fine as it will probably be photocopied and passed around. On the other hand, if you are going to send it directly into a company that you want to work for then it would be good if you could use high quality paper.
Is it true that I shouldn't put my personal details at the top?
There is no set rule that says you should or shouldn't. It is advised to have your name, address, contact number(s) and email at the top and optionally, have additional details such as your date of birth, nationality, marital status and driving licence status at the bottom.
Should I include the address of each of my employers?
No. Employers' addresses are only required in application forms and is optional in CVs. You could just put in the location of where you worked such as the city or country - if you've worked in many cities or countries before. In a CV you only really need the company name, job title, date and optionally the job description and achievements.
My friend has a nicely written personal statement that I like and she's given me permission to use it. Can I just use it?
Preferably - no. It is highly advisable not to just copy your friend's personal statement. Reason being that no two personal CV statements should be the same since no two person is the same. It also will definitely not look good if you're applying for a job at the same company!For my achievements, if I don't have any sales figures that I can use. What else can I use?
It is always advisable to backup your achievements with figures. If you do not have any sales figures to use then you could always use performance or time related figures instead.
I don't have the exact figures to use in my CV's achievements but I have a rough idea. Can I still use them?
If you do not have access to exact figures or percentages then a rough estimate would be fine. Just make sure you do not inflate the truth too much since they can be checked!
