When applying for a job you will normally be asked to apply by submitting a CV (curriculum vitae) also called a resume. A CV is a summary of your personal details, skills, work experience and details of people who will vouch for you and can provide more information about skills and motivation.

Most jobs are now advertised and applied for on-line. Ensure that the format you use for your CV is a common format e.g., PDF or Word so that it can be easily accessed by the person recruiting the position. Also be aware of the size of your CV and covering letter file. Don’t make it too big as this may cause problems for the receiver of your application, if their internet connection is poor. Often this associated with photos and intricate layouts.

Read the advert carefully and tailor your application to what is being asked for in the CV. When receiving applications, it is obvious that many applicants haven’t read the job advertisement in detail.

DON’T apply for jobs that you have no intention of accepting should you be offered the role – this just wastes everybody’s time. Your application won’t necessarily get you a job, but the aim should be to try and make the next stage of the process – which is normally to get an interview.

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