Your CV is your “Career Passport” – Why Your CV Matters
Your CV is a critical document that represents your professional identity and qualifications. It should be concise—ideally no longer than two A4 pages—and regularly updated to reflect your most recent experience and achievements.
Essential CV Content
- Personal Details: Include your full name, general location with postcode, a professional email address, and a mobile number. Ensure your voicemail greeting is appropriate for potential employers.
- Profile Summary: Provide a brief overview of your background, career progression, and professional aspirations.
- Employment History: List roles in reverse chronological order, specifying dates, employer, job title, and a summary of responsibilities.
- Qualifications: Detail secondary, college, and Early Years qualifications with dates. Include relevant additional courses such as First Aid or Safeguarding.
- Additional Information: Mention interests, driving status, and DBS registration on the Update Service if applicable.
Information to Exclude
- Do not include your full address, National Insurance number, or referee details to protect your privacy.
- Avoid listing every training course, especially if outdated, and do not copy job descriptions from contracts.
- References – this information will be requested on application forms, do not add your Referees personal details to your CV.
Cover Letters
Some companies do like to see a cover letter as to why you are applying for a role – this is normally if you are applying direct for a position.
Application Forms
For roles in Early Years and similar sectors, you may be required to complete an application form covering DBS status, travel ability, salary expectations, safeguarding history, health, disciplinary record, and reference permissions. Ensure all information is accurate and truthful, as discrepancies may result in disqualification or dismissal.
Best Practices
- Keep your CV current and professional.
- Proofread for spelling and grammar errors.
- Update employment dates promptly.
- Use professional contact details and voicemail greetings.
- Do not include negative experiences; these can be discussed during interviews if necessary.
- Maintain a professional online presence, as employers may review your social media.
It is vital that ALL information provided is accurate and honest. False, misleading, or omitted details may result in being excluded from the recruitment process or dismissed after employment.
Top Tips
- Keep your “Career Passport” up to date. An outdated CV can give the wrong impression to employers.
- it is important to ensure that your CV presents you in a positive, professional light.
- Always check your spelling and grammar before submitting your CV; mistakes are easily noticed.
- Whenever you update your work history, remember to update the end date for your previous role.
- Choose professional email addresses and voicemail messages—avoid anything silly, rude, or inappropriate.
- Avoid mentioning grievances or negative experiences from past jobs in your CV. – this information can be discussed at interview, and written confirmation on your application form.
- Be aware of your social media presence, as employers may review your online profiles.
- References should cover around 5 years employment, be at least your two most recent employers.