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The Curriculum Vitae

What is a CV?

The term CV means curriculum vitae which in turn means "the course or record of ones life". It is simply a record of 'the applicant'.

The purpose of a CV

It describes to an employer what you have done or acquired in terms of skills, knowledge, experience, interests, career etc, and it aims to get you an interview. Some employers prefer to use CVs in place of application forms for reasons of cost and time.

General points about CVs

  • it should be brief (no more than two pages of A4 paper printed on one side).
  • type or neatly print it on good quality paper.
  • be accurate and careful with spelling; there should be no visible amendments.
  • use plain language and be concise.
  • be factual and truthful.

Content of a CV

There are no set rules about the layout or order of a CV but it should contain at least the following information:
  • personal details: name, address, telephone number, age, nationality, driving licence
  • employment history: details/dates of jobs held with a brief description including part-time, temporary or weekend work
  • education / training: qualifications taken (or taking) or other training
  • Interests: hobbies and interests may be very relevant indicating to employers some degree of practical/intellectual ability, community involvement or physical activity on the part of the applicant

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Last modified on: Sunday, March 23, 1997.