Interview Tips

What to Do…

· Succinct sentences are easy to scan, especially given many recruiters have just 10 seconds to read it.
· Use standard typefaces such as Arial, 11 or 12 points. Make it more readable.
· Check and re-check spelling do not rely on spell checker.
· Ensure your personal details are printed by all printers not in the header/footer.
· Dates and employment should be easily found and consistent.
· Lead with achievements, use active verbs and positive language.
· Follow up all claims with proven examples, be quantitative as well as qualitative.
· Use email addresses where referees are abroad.
· Include awards or recognition received for work well done, together with professional memberships and relevant training.
· Keep your CV honest, factual and to two pages.
· Ensure every line sells you at your best.
· Prioritise relevant content.
· Ensure you send your CV with a covering letter ideally to a named individual.
· Take ownership and use words such as Determined, Implemented, Created, Devised, Coordinated, Conceived.
· Include figures ie number of staff you managed or budget size.
· Focus on what you have to offer the employer rather than listing what you have done.
· Ask trusted colleagues and friends if this is an accurate representation of you.
· Seek feedback if you are not achieving any interviews and if you feel your CV is not reflecting you at your best seek external advice.

What Not To Do…

· Date your CV. 
· Put your irrelevant personal details first ie date of birth and nationality. 
· Mention Salaries. 
· It is not necessary to put reason for leaving. 
· Include negative or irrelevant information. 
· Lie. 
· Use Reverse Chronological format if you have many gaps between employment. 
· Put education first if its 10 years out of date. 
· List every employer if you have been working since the seventies. 
· Allocate the same space to all positions, prioritize the content. 
· Quote unsubstantiated superlatives. 
· Modify your CV for every application unless you have a foolproof method of remembering to whom you sent which edition.