Writing a Curriculum Vitae AiTA 12th Week Presentation March 25, 2008

A CV or Curriculum Vitae is: Curriculum vitae is a marketing tool Look at it from your employers point of view Essential tool in your job search. Your Professional Life History, Job History, Achievements and Skills

Why Write a CV? To apply for a job within the same field To apply for a job within a different field To summarize your life achievements To apply for a particular job vacancy

Why Write a CV? To apply for a job within the same field Make sure your CV highlights your achievements. Writing a CV is easy but writing a good CV isn't. Achievements can show the employer that you are able to meet objectives.

Why Write a CV? To apply for a job within the same field To apply for a job within a different field So the time has come for a career overhaul. Write a CV that highlights any experience or qualifications in this new area. You would also need a reason in your CV outlining why you want to make a career change.

Why Write a CV? To apply for a job within the same field To apply for a job within a different field To summarize your life achievements Having a full CV, is always a good idea. Keep your CV updated at all times, adding any relevant courses or qualifications.

Why Write a CV? To apply for a job within the same field To apply for a job within a different field To summarize your life achievements To apply for a particular job vacancy Address all the job requirements in your CV. If you do not have any formal qualifications that cover the job requirements, try to make up for it by showing your experience. A CV is an essential tool in you job search and career.

Writing a CV Heading Name Local address address Phone number Skills Summary The Skills Summary section of your CV includes your main skills. You should only include keywords in this section, do not go into lengthy descriptions of your skills. The skill summary is also called personal profile.

Writing a CV Objective The CV Objective states "What is my next step in my career?" This should be a short, concise statement that informs the employer what kind of position you are looking for. The type of position, the role (managerial, supervisor, contractor) should be included as well. Education List all your qualifications in this section. Include all of your education including certifications from non-academic institutions, especially those that are related to your job and/or vacancy. If you have more work experience than qualifications, put your work experience before your qualifications.

Writing a CV Honors, Awards or Accomplishments Professional or Work Experience Activities and Interests References available upon request

Writing a CV Primary materials Applicant Information Education Dissertation Title and Advisor Awards/Honors/Patents Grants/Fellowships Research Experience Teaching Experience Publications and Presentations Related Professional Experience Languages Other- Memberships, Associations, Conferences References Supplementary Materials Cover Letter Dissertation Abstract Statement of Research and Scholarly Interests Statement of Teaching Interests Course lists

Improving your CV Always write a new CV for each job, specifically designing them to answer and highlight the relevant information about yourself as regards to job requirements; Always draw interest towards your best plus points which would be show you as one of the most eligible for the job Be aware of the market trends regarding the latest technology, latest training, latest jargons that are relevant. Use those in sufficient quantity to show that you are abreast with the times

Improving your CV Keep it interesting with short sentences if you need to elaborate and bullet points when you need to list Build the expectations slowly but steadily and use the right formatting applicable. Highlight clearly what value you can add to the job and the value addition you can bring.

Tips for great CV’s DO make your vita a clear and concise summary of your professional qualifications. Like any good writing, every word should count. DO try to obtain copies of several vitae from individuals who are at your stage of professional development or slightly ahead. One of the best ways to construct a vita is by seeing how others have done it. DO take the time to create an elegant and inviting format, and be sure to laser print the final product on high quality paper. Style matters, and your vita should appear professional, uncluttered, and friendly to the eye.

Tips for great CV’s DO be sure to check the vita carefully for mistakes and typographical errors. Without exception, it must be absolutely error-free. DO have your faculty adviser, colleagues, family, and friends look over your vita before you send it out. They will undoubtedly spot weaknesses you have overlooked and may be able to suggest ways of overcoming them.