Writing your CV
A CV (latin for curriculum vitae) is a list of all your experience that is relevant to the job you’re applying for.
You’ll want to include all your current and previous roles, as well as any voluntary work and additional qualifications. Everything that shows you have the right skills for the job.
Always read the job description and skills required in the job advert and include your experience that matches it. For example, you might have people manager experience, health and safety qualifications or worked in a similar industry.
How to write your CV
CVs generally have a standard, plain style:
- Use a clear font like Arial, or Calibri in size 11 (ideally) or bigger.
- Use the same font and style throughout.
- Write your headings in bold and use bullet points for lists.
- Be clear and to the point.
- Get someone else to read it to double check your spelling and grammar.
Download an editable CV example
What your CV should contain
When writing your CV include the following sections:
Employers need to know how to contact you if they want to offer you an interview.
You should include your name, phone number, email address.
You should not include your age, your date of birth, whether you're married or your nationality.
A few short lines that sum up who you are and what you hope to do. It should go just under your name and contact details.
Make your introduction sound like you're the right person for the job. Not everyone feels comfortable saying how good they are, but don’t worry, just write exactly why your skills make you the best person for this job.
Include details of any paid and voluntary jobs you’ve had, starting with the most recent.
You should include:
- Employer’s (company) name: e.g. DS Smith
- Job title
- Dates of your employment: e.g. January 2023 – May 2025
- Short job description, what you did, no more than 2 or 3 bullet points
Any awards or anything you are particularly proud of that is relevant to the role you have applied for.
- Names of your qualifications
- Date you received your qualification
- Name of school, college or university where you studied
E.g. GCSEs | 2008 | Grange Hill School, London / Health and Safety training | 2024 | RoSPA
Cover letters
Cover letters are a summary of your experience, why you have applied for the job and why your experience matches the role. While these are not always required, they can help your application stand out over others.