Your CV is often your first chance to impress that potential employer. Preparing your own needn't be a daunting task but take the time to get it right and you will reap the benefits. Just follow the guidelines below to maximise your chances and help you stand out from the crowd!

Double check and triple check for spelling and grammar! Get someone else to read your CV through too. What may seem perfectly clear to you might not make sense at all to someone else!

The purpose of a CV is to present facts about yourself and your employment history as clearly and concisely as possible. It should be no more than two pages long and don't use fancy typefaces or graphics (especially important if sending by email.) The structure should be as follows:

YOUR DETAILS

• Start with your name, address and contact numbers

• You do not have to mention your marital status or age unless the job specifically asks for it

• If you have a driving licence and own transport mention it here

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

• Start with the most recent first

• Give your Job Title, Company Name and the length of time you have spent there

• Your key tasks and responsibilities

• Mention any achievements such as promotion, handling a large account etc

QUALIFICATIONS

• If you are a school leaver or student, go into greater academic detail

• If you have a longer history at work, detail any relevant courses you have attended or qualifications you have attained

SPECIAL SKILLS

• Are you a team player, able to work on your own initiative, a good communicator. Perhaps you're a first aider?

HOBBIES AND INTERESTS

• Keep this section brief