Creating a CV can feel like an interesting journey , but with the right structure and a little guidance, you’ll have a professional-looking resume in no time! Michelle Lima reminds us that building a strong track record is just as important as crafting your CV. Every bit of work, no matter how small, should be showcased—especially on platforms like LinkedIn. This way, when HR sees your CV, they can easily find you and see your work firsthand.

Here’s a simple breakdown of what to include in your CV:

1. Personal Information

Start with the basics:

• Full name
• Phone number
• Professional email address (ditch the nicknames!)
• LinkedIn profile (super helpful for HR to see your track record)
• Location (just the city or region)

2. Personal Statement

Think of this as your “elevator pitch.” A few lines summarising who you are, what you bring to the table, and what you're looking for. Tailor it for each job you apply to and keep it snappy!

3. Work Experience

List your job title, the company name, and dates of employment. Focus on your key responsibilities and achievements. If you’ve made an impact (like "increased sales by 20%"), definitely highlight that!

If you’re new to the job market, don’t worry—internships, part-time gigs, and volunteer work can all show relevant skills.

4. Skills

Include both hard and soft skills.

• Hard skills - could be things like software knowledge, design skills, or coding.
• Soft skills - include things like leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.

5. Education

List your highest qualification, the institution you attended, and any relevant coursework if you're just starting out. This helps employers see the foundation you’ve built.

6. Certifications or Courses

Got any certifications? Include them! Whether it’s a Google Analytics certificate or a marketing workshop, it shows you’re always learning and growing.

7. Achievements & Interests

Awards, publications, or hobbies that align with the role? Use numbers to show your impact! Whenever possible, add figures like percentages or metrics to highlight your achievements in past roles. Add them! Just make sure they showcase transferable skills or traits that employers would appreciate.

8. Tailor Your CV for Each Job

Every job is different, so tweak your CV for each application. Use keywords from the job description to make sure your CV gets noticed by both hiring managers and applicant tracking systems.

Where to Find Help

If you’re feeling stuck, here are some places to get support:

1. Templates: Websites like Canva or Atlas have modern CV templates that are easy to use.
2. Career Centres: If you're in school or university, they often have resources to help you craft a winning CV.
3. Online Tools: LinkedIn and Jobscan can help you optimise your CV and tailor it for specific roles.
4. Freelancers: If you want professional help, you can hire a CV writer on platforms like LinkedIn

With these tips, your CV will not only get noticed—it’ll help you land the job you want! Make sure to update it regularly and always tailor it to the job you're aiming for. Happy job hunting!