No matter what industry you’re hoping to go into, you’ll need a CV. Whether you’re unsure what a CV is, need tips for structuring it, or want to build a new CV from scratch, we've collated our best advice into one place.
What is a CV?
'CV' is short for curriculum vitae, which means 'course of life' in Latin. Essentially, it's a nickname for a document summarising your work experience, qualifications, skills, achievements and education. CVs are a crucial part of any application, and often they're the first impression an employer will have of you.
You might have also heard CVs referred to as 'resumés'. Either way, the document is usually one page that succinctly shows off who you are as a professional.
What should a CV include?
Although everyone’s CV will be different depending their experience, job application and chosen industry, there are a few main sections that most CVs include:
- Your name and contact details
- A personal profile (an 'about' section that covers who you are in a few lines)
- Your previous work experience and employment, plus dates
- Your key skills and achievements
- Your education and qualifications
Learn more about how to write a CV.
