4. How to write the best CV to get the job that you want

4. How to write the best CV to get the job that you want

When you graduate from university you have to a job hunting. The first step in a successful job search is to decide on the kind of job you want and the kind you are qualified for. The next question to answer is "Where can I find this job?", because buoyant jobs market is crowded with people looking for work. There are numerous possibilities, e.g. job ads in the papers; recruitment agencies; company websites, various kind of public sector entity that can help people to find their work placement.

Your job application/ profile or CV is the first point of contact with a possible employer so you should try to make it as presentable and interesting as possible. You have to convince the employer that you have the skills, experience and enthusiasm to do the job. You are ready to show your ongoing resilience and to grasp new ideas. Apply for a job only if you think you can do it and that you want to do it. You must work only on your own initiative. If you want to get the position of manager or director, you need to have an approach to challenges and be able to meet tight deadlines. You must be able to process new information quickly and adjust to it. Read the job details thoroughly and plan your next steps. You'll probably need to complete a profile, or write a formal letter of application with your curriculum vitae, or CV.

The best way to get a job is to see yourself as a product that you are marketing, so think very carefully about how you present yourself in your CV and covering letter.

CV should include:

•your full name, address, and contact details

•a personal profile emphasizing your strengths, versatility and value to the future employer a list of your skills, achievements and key responsibilities, your interpersonal skills, that you are a team player and all-rounder person. You are ready to contribute to a company, you have a mental agility and have the ability to prioritise tasks.

•your career history starting with the most recent

•your education and what qualifications were gained

•any professional qualifications you have

•relevant hobbies, interests or other skills

•details of referees (if requested)

It's polite to send a letter accompanying whatever sort of application you make. But if you've completed a detailed application form that included a lengthy personal statement, this can be only a short note.

The covering letter should draw together all the facts and comments in your CV and make an overall case for being a suitable candidate for the job. Explain which job vacancy you are applying for and where you saw the advertisement. Then give brief details of your age and education, before detailing your relevant experience and why you think you are suitable for this job.

Don't forget to put details of your referees and when you would be available for an interview as well as when you would be able to start work.

Most companies are international nowadays, being bilingual is a great way to stand out and have a competitive advantage. So, you have the ability to consider a working abroad. Even if language skills aren’t necessary to the position, they might come in handy at some point.

When listing your languages, you can categorize them between: Native/Fluent/Proficient/Intermediate/Basic

It goes without saying that you should be honest here and don’t lie on your language skills - it’s just not worth it.