What do employers want?
Before you write your CV, take a moment to think about the person who is going to be reading it. On this page we offer advice for tailoring your CV to your audience.
CVs and covering letters should always be tailored. The person reading your CV and cover letter wants to know what skills and experience you have in relation to the position or course for which you are applying.
You will need to emphasise your relevant academic performance, work experience (paid or unpaid), activities and interests. Do not assume that the reader will make the link between what you have done and the skills you have developed. A good CV will do this work for them.
Before writing your CV and covering letter, consider the following:
- what you have done to date eg work, study, volunteering, positions of responsibility, achievements
- assess what this means. What skills and experience have you gained, what qualities have you demonstrated?
- research the job/course to ensure you know what qualifications, skills and experience they are looking for
- make the link - match the skills and experience required with the evidence of your suitability.
WAVE
The WAVE Webfolio is designed to make sure you get the most out of any work or volunteering experience you have. WAVE not only helps you with making plans, getting involved and reflecting on your experience and your own personal development, but also being able to ‘sell’ it to others afterwards, e.g. prospective employers.
This article was published on Apr 5, 2012