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RESUME/CV GUIDELINES

In English, a curriculum vitae, Latin for "course of life", often shortened to CV, is a short written summary of a person's career, qualifications, and education. It is also called a 'resume'.

Sample RESUME

Why do I need a Resume (CV)?

To show prospective employers your skills, education and experience and make a good impression. This increases your chances of getting an interview.

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When it comes to your resume, content is key.

But a bad layout could mean a trip to the reject pile.

1. Successful Resumes are:

  • Truthful, easy to read

  • Short: One or two pages is usually sufficient

 
2. Resume Layout & Format

Your resume needs to:

  • Stand out

  • Be professional

  • Be tailored to the position you are applying for

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3. Personal Details

  • Full name

  • Current address

  • Phone number

  • Appropriate email address

  • LinkedIn (if you have one)

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4. Personal Profile

  • Optional short statement

  • Direct and to the point

  • Tailored to the position

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5. Skills & Strengths

  • The skills and strengths required are: 
    teamwork, communication, adaptability, technological literacy, professionalism, strong work ethic and problem solving.

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6. Don't have the right work experience?

  • Look at your transferable skills: These are the skills and abilities that are relevant and helpful across different areas of life, socially or professionally. Consider skills gained from everything you do including hobbies and interests, work at home and volunteer or community work.
    teamwork, animal care, computer skills, first aid etc

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7. Employment History

Presenting your info:

  • Position and role title including dates

  • Most recent first

  • Name of the employer or organisation

  • A description of tasks and duties

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8. Interests

  • List your recent interests - be descriptive ie. coached junior football team, I enjoy running and recently completed my first marathon.

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9. Referees

  • Update these on your Resume or write "available on request"

  • When the organisation requests referees:
    - ASK your referee first and inform them about the job you've applied for
    - Provide 2-3 referees: Include their names, job positions and contact details (cell phone and email)

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​10. What not to include

  • Photos: It’s not about how you look, it’s about your relevant skills and experience.

  • Activities you did or awards you received in primary school: This is simply not relevant, so omit any outdated information.

  • The words Curriculum Vitae: now resume is more current.  

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