Alem Bedhija
April 18, 2023

Create the best Curriculum Vitae/Resume (updated)

As the name suggests, a Curriculum Vitae (CV) it’s not an ordinary document, but a representation of the course of your life, and so it happens that anywhere you want to go, you’ll need a good CV. As we’ve said in our previous article, a CV not only showcases your background but also reveals your potential for the future.

What is a Curriculum Vitae and how is it different from a resume?

As we said above, a CV is a document that gives concise information about your academic and work background. CVs are used almost exclusively when one is pursuing an academic job or education. Although a CV does not differ much from a resume and is used as a synonym even, some aspects divide the two as independent typologies. A resume is usually shorter, preferably a one-page abstract that helps create your professional identity. A CV, on the other hand, creates your scholastic identity, is longer, and includes other elements of one’s abilities and interests, that you won’t always find in a resume.Create the best Curriculum Vitae/Resume

Key principles when writing a CV

When you sit down to write your CV it’s essential to keep in mind some principal rules. Whatever reason is pushing you to write it, you should know that the number one rule is to be truthful from start to finish: no false academic or job experience-related information.

There is no standard Curriculum Vitae format, as there are specific emphasized contents for different disciplines. The best thing you can do is to include anything considered important to your discipline. A good starting place is to search and look at other people’s CVs (those of your field). Make use of the internet, or simply ask people you know that have recently been in the job market to take a look at theirs. However, your CV must remain unique and original. Don’t copy from others, study the ways you can present information effectively.Create the best Curriculum Vitae/Resume

CVs need to be simple and easy to read, as well as attractive to the eye. The way the information is presented, the visual presentation, can either give your CV a chance to get read or be overlooked. Be clear, and make the highlights visible; use bullet points, clear headings, and professional fonts. Try to keep it no longer than two pages.Create the best Curriculum Vitae/Resume

Overall, keep it classy.

The structure is everything for your CV

Although you may have a lot to say, and the content of your CV is rich, a missing structure can devalue your Curriculum Vitae. Structure plays a key role in CVs because it’s an indicator of many things. To begin, a good structure it’s a paradise for the eyes. Aligned text and structured paragraphs, give the impression of good work. That takes us to the second point. Structure makes you look professional, and gives a sense of professional seriousness and integrity. It also suggests that time and thought have been put into creating it.

Draw people in with your writing

Don’t mistake compelling writing for artistic style. A CV cannot encompass all your experience. That is clear to all recruiters, but it is important to make yourself believable in your intentions and the appearance you want to deliver.

The work description entries are the most important if applying for a job position. It is suggested that you try to be as laconic as possible. It is not always in your favor to use long sentences. Laconic use of words is valued, as it is clearer and concise. Explaining in a few words your job experiences get you to the point and makes the CV fluid.

If you are struggling with other sections on your CV keep in mind that you can make good use of your space. If you tend to use somewhat long phrasing, bullets might help you to separate information in a way to communicate better to the reader.

It is of great importance that you dedicate a section of your CV to your profile, describing yourself in a synthesized way, and what you want to achieve, as it is common practice, especially if you are applying for a job position, but don’t have many job experiences. In this case, we would encourage you to pay attention to other elements that can make your image complete. We’ll talk about that in a minute. Even if you are applying to an educational institution for academic pursuit the profile helps a lot. It can be an organic summarized overview of your motivation letter.

To add, or not to add a picture of yourself?

There are two main theories about adding a picture to one’s CV. Some consider it to be an unhealthy practice, as appearance can lead to misjudging, so adding your face to your CV is optional, however, it is common practice to add it for two main reasons.

Firstly, adding your picture gives the CV a complete feeling and form, and also quietly translates as more professional. Some people believe this comes from the idea that our picture makes the CV believable and gives the perception that we take 100% accountability for what we present in it.

Another reason to add a picture to CVs is the type of job you are applying for. There are certain professions where appearance plays a key role. When you work as a travel agent, you are the image of a company, so a neat, clean look can lead to a good first impression. Even though this can come as a sensitive topic, it’s recommended that you add your picture to your CV.

Adding general/contact information

Name: of the applicant

Telephone/cellphone number: +00 000 000 00

e-mail address: email@example.com

Website: www.example.com

Address: your address

LinkedIn: your LinkedIn can serve as a source to know your profile better, and it’s recommended to include it

Other important elements:

Training is an indicator of perseverance, knowledge, and qualification.

Soft skills have taken another importance in this day and age, so adding those to your CV shows you have a good comprehension of the job market.

Interpersonal skills are another great element you can add. This can indicate your behavior in the workplace.

Interests and hobbies. It’s good to add some personal information to your CV. Makes your profile more diverse. Don’t forget that is also of interest (not always) to your employers.

Social media it’s an optional element that relies on the way you have constructed your image. Feel free not to add it, but remember to analyze if and how connects with your experience, and goal.

Languages are a must. Knowing languages, it’s a skill like no other. Include them in your CV, as they’re only going to help.

Additional details

Technical and software skills
Volunteer work
Certificates

Review your CV

Grammar mistakes are the first thing to go unnoticed when writing your CV, so take your time and make a thorough check for grammar/spelling mistakes, irrelevant information, or wordy sentences. Read your CV out loud, and make sure it sounds natural. Give it to someone else to read, as they are not familiar with it, and can deliver better criticism or mistakes finding. Don’t forget the structure!

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Get our latest offers and News.

Create the best Curriculum Vitae/Resume (updated)

Short Links

Contact Info

Follow Us