Build a CV that gets you noticed

Your CV acts as the document that gets you an interview. Think of it as a key marketing tool in your job-hunting journey.

There are two main types of CV:

The chronological CV lists your various positions in reverse order, with your latest first. The advantage of this resume format is that it presents your background in a clear-cut, straightforward manner, enabling the reader to quickly size up your background.

The functional CV avoids/plays down the employment record. It emphasises your expertise and accomplishments in each functional/technical area, particularly the one in which you seek a job - so you can de-emphasise work areas you do not wish to highlight.

Once you have picked the CV type best suited for you, or downloaded our CV template here, follow these key do's and dont's for successful CVs:

Do

• Present yourself accurately, positively, and truthfully.
• Use an easy to read, clear and simple format.
• Include a brief description of companies you have worked.
• Emphasize your achievements, including figures and statistics when relevant. E.g. Implemented new business processes that reduced costs by 30%.
• Start with an objective statement: Who are you professionally, and what are you looking for? (this may differ depending on what job you are applying for, and you may tailor your objective statement depending on the company you are applying to).
• Keep it simple. Between 2-4 pages is standard in New Zealand.
• CHECK FOR SPELLING MISTAKES!

Don't

• Include salary requirements (have a range in mind for the interview stage, but you don't need to over or under price yourself before you get there!).
• Include your address (your future employer will ask when they need that information).
• Include your marital status or family size (this is unnecessary information to include in New Zealand).