What’s a CV?

A CV is simply the acronym for Curriculum Vitae. There’s been quite a number of divergent views on the differences between a CV and a Resume.

A Resume is a summarized version of one's life story, detailing their educational qualifications and skills, specifically for a particular job. So if someone has a skill that's not related to the job that he/she is applying for, such skill would not be included on the Resume.

While a CV is a long personal story, containing all of the academic qualifications, skills, and competencies that an individual possesses. This appears to be longer than a Resume.

The bottom line is that, when you're applying for a particular job, only include relevant skills and competencies applicable to such jobs.

Things to note when writing your CV:

1. Use standard fonts for your CV; Calibri, Times New Romans, Arial, should be your go-to fonts.

2. Your header should be the largest in your CV.

3. Be consistent with your font – do not use two different fonts on your CV.

4. Write your first name before your last name.

Personal Information:

1. Your email address.

2. Phone number.

3. Contact Address.

4. LinkedIn account name.

Only include your date of birth if there’s an age limit for the job you are applying for.

The LinkedIn account name is one of the requirements in modern-day CV writing. This would give your employer vital details about your activities on the social media space.

Personal Profile:

When writing a CV, your personal profile is the first thing after your name and personal info. Because, it gives a clear understanding of every other thing you want to write in your CV.

Tips to writing your personal profile:

1. State the degree you obtained.

2. Mention two or more skills that you possess relating to the job you are applying for.

3. State how these skills can help solve a problem in the company you are seeking for employment in.

Work Experience:

This is usually the most important section of a CV, it shows that a candidate has the relevant experience needed for the job.

Skills and competencies:

Here are the top 5 skills expected from any job seeker:

- Communication skills.

- Leadership skills.

- Ability to work in a team.

- Communication skills (written and verbal).

- Problem-solving skills.