CV Workbook

Is your CV targeted at the skills and experiences

required in the job for which you are applying?

Use this workbook to improve your CV

 2

CONTENTS PAGE

CV Checklist……………………………………………………………… Leadership
Target your CV at the2 skills
Necessary Preparation required in the job
For each vacancy… Teamwork
Organisatio
1. Research the key skills required…………………………………………………….. 3 n
2. Identify when you’ve shown the required skills……………………………………. 4
3. Choose the most appropriate CV format (Skills based or traditional)…………… 4

Writing your CV

General…………………………………………………………………………………….. 5
Personal Details…………………………………………………………………………… 5
Education…………………………………………………………………………………... 6
Work Experience………………………………………………………………………….. 7
Interests……………………………………………………………………………………. 9
Referees…………………………………………………………………………………… 9
Key Words / Positive action words……………………………………………………… 10
Optional Sections (Personal Profile / Positions of Responsibility / Additional Skills) 10
Some Hints on Using Microsoft Word…………………………………………………... 11

Example CVs – Contents…………………………………………………….. 13

Chronological (Traditional)………………………………………………………………. 14
Skills-Based…..…………………………………………………………………………… 18
Academic………………………………………………………………………………….. 22

CV Checklist

You do the work – We’re there to help

1. Have you targeted your CV at the skills and experience
required? i.e. have you proved that you have the skills
required for the particular role you’re applying for?

General applications – generally fail

 3

2. Have you demonstrated how you’ve shown each skill

(Rather than just listed them)?
3. Have you used positive action words and key words from the
personal specification?
4. Have you highlighted the main points?
5. Are the dates easy to see?
6. Have you checked the spelling and grammar?
7. Is it attractive and easy to read?
8 Is your CV short (two pages)?
9. Have you whetted the reader’s appetite?
 4
Preparation
1. Preparation - Research the Skills Required
A CV allows you to present yourself in the
best possible light. It is a great opportunity
for you to relate your skills and experiences Leadership
to those required by each particular
employer.
Organisation
Teamwork
Because no two jobs or organisations are
exactly the same, there is no such thing as a
standard CV. Each time you apply for a job Communication
it’s up to you to identify the skills required.

For example: Your CV is your shop-window advertising

• A bar job may require good teamwork skills and excellent verbal
communication skills
• A publishers may require good written communication skills and commercial
awareness

Most employers require a mix of technical skills and transferable skills such as teamwork
and good organisation

How to find out what skills are required:

1. Look at the organisation’s web-site

2. Highlight the key words in the personal specification (either published

with the vacancy details or on the employer’s brochure / website)

3.
Look at the skills required for similar vacancies

4. Conta
ct the organisation and ask for an informal chat (good networking opportunity)

5. Ask yourself what skills would be required in that role.

Remember –

Employers have
The Top 26 Skills Required by Employers about a minute to
read your CV – if
Willingness to learn it’s not clearly
Flexibility
Commitment focussed on the
Initiative skills required it
Dependability/reliability Can summarise key issues will end up in the
Self-motivation Logical argument bin
Team work Adaptability (intellectual)
Leadership Numeracy
Communication skills (oral) Adaptability (organisational)
Co-operation Can cope with pressure/stress
Communication skills (written) Time management
Drive/energy Rapid conceptualisation of issues
Self-management Enquiry and research skills
Desire to achieve/motivation Self-confidence
Problem solving ability Analytical ability
 5

2. Preparation - Identify when you’ve shown the required skills

Think of a recent time in your life when you have shown each of the key skills
required, e.g. at University, at work or during sporting / social pursuits. Work
experience is particularly attractive to employers.

The table below shows how you might provide evidence for two key skills. Note
how the examples provided are taken from a wide range of activities.

Skill Examples of Evidence Your evidence

Communication • Work experience (everything from •
– Interpersonal bar work to clerical work)
• Course/hall rep
• Students Union network
• Nightlight/Campus Connect
• Mentoring
Communication • Publicity materials for voluntary or •
– Written Students Union society
• Articles for London Student, other
publications, scripts
• Essays, dissertations, projects

3. Preparation - Choose an appropriate CV Format

Most Graduate CVs fall into two categories

Chronological CVs (Traditional) Skills-Based CVs

• Still focussed on skills!
• Most common form of CV
• Effective format for people with relevant
work experience
• Useful when the employer stresses your
experience
• Directly relate each experience
(University, work-experience and
interests) to the skills required in the job
• You choose the headings but include:
− Personal details
− education
− Work Experience
− interests
− Contact details for referees
See examples on page 12
• Generally used by students / graduates
without much work experience but with
all the relevant skills
• Useful when the employer stresses your
skills above your relevant experience
• Briefly list your education, work-
experience and interests
• Include a skills profile proving that you
have the 6/7 skills required in the job
• You choose the headings but include:
− Personal details
− Education
− Work experience
− Interests
− Skills profile
− Contact details for referees
See examples on page 12
 6

Writing Your CV
Before putting pen to paper it is first necessary to research the skills required in
the job you’re going for, and identify when you have demonstrated them.

General
• No more than 2 sides of A4 (can be more for
academic CVs)
• Typed, with a clear, simple font (minimum size: 11 point)
• Short paragraphs of text (3/4 lines max)
• Mixture of bullet points and text (not too muchKISS: Keep it Short and Sweet
of each)
• Allocate space according to relevance of information
• Don’t try to squash in as many words as possible – leave wide margins and plenty of
white space (less is more)
• Use key words from the application and positive ‘action’ words (see page…)
• Make sure dates are easy to see (don’t leave any gaps)
• You choose the headings but include:
− Personal Details − Interests
− Education − Contact details for referees
− Work Experience

Personal Details

Example 1: Steve Davies Address

Clear, attractive font
07936 414445 with dates
his8imp@seeds.com

Home Address: 26 High street Term address: 23 Chestnut

Fulham (From October 10) Avenue
London SW3 4HP London
London LS6 9PL
Tel: 0123 735 6832 Tel: 01234 004 4801
Date of birth: 12 February 1982

No need to write Don’t use too

‘Curriculum Vitae’ much space

Example 2:
Address
Clear, attractive font with dates
Cynthia Xiu Whien

Term Address: (Until July 20) Home Address (From July 20 – October 8)
23 Ches Avenue, 63 Deancroft Avenue
London Queensbury
LS6 9VQ London NW13 9EP
Tel: 01425 2537766 / 0151 4478321 Tel: 01233 205 1830 / 07845 345444

E-mail: cxw@hosmail.com Date of Birth: 12 February 1981

For more examples refer to sample CVs (page 11)
 7
Education
• Relate your degree to the job
− For chronological CVs, outline some skills gained which are relevant to the
job, these can be transferable skills such as teamwork and communication (see page…) and /
or technical skills if the job is related to your degree
− For skills-based CVs, outline some relevant experience or achievements
• Secondary level to degree in reverse chronological order
• Show degree grade predicted / gained Remember – relate
• A Levels with grade your degree to the job
• Don’t list all GCSEs (just Maths and English)

Example 1: Chronological CV (Traditional)

Education

2001–2004 University of London, BA (Hons) History (2:1 expected)

Relevant Modules:
• Qualitative Research Skills
• Social Statistics
Include any relevant
modules and outline a
relevant dissertation
• Market Forces
• Research Statistics

Skills Gained: Developed a wide range of transferable skills within the fields of analysis and
qualitative research. For my dissertation on the economies of South East Asia I analysed and
interpreted information from various sources including the Internet, libraries and museum
archives
Relate your degree to the skills
1993–2001 Westminister School for Boys, London required in the job your applying
for (in this case – research skills)
A levels: History (A), Geography (B), Maths (B)
GCSEs : 8 subjects all passed at grade “B” or above, including English Language and Maths
Dates easy to see Allocate space according to importance
(reverse chronological order) of qualification (more for degree than A Levels)

Example 2: Skills Based CV

Education

2000 – Present University of London MEng, Civil Engineering, 2:1 pass predicted
Include relevant modules and
Mixture
Key Modules: outline a relevant dissertation
Research Methods
of bullet Computing
pointsPresenting Ideas to Clients Information Technology
and textSurveying Mathematics
• Research Methods • Computing

Dissertation on presenting computer aided designs to manufacturers with little or no

engineering background. This project involved regular communication and presentation
within a fast-pace service environment Describe some achievements
from your degree which relate to
the job (skills gained are outlined
1992 – 1999 Queen Mary’s Secondary School, Maidstone
later in the skills profile)
A Levels: Chemistry (B), History (A), Mathematics (B)
7 GCSEs (B and above) Allocate space according to importance
of qualification (more for degree than A Levels)
 8
For more examples refer to sample CVs (page 11)

Remember –
relate your work
experience to the
job
Work Experience
− Include volunteer work, part-time jobs and vacation work, include most recent
and relevant, e.g. over the last 4 years
− Include dates, the job title, the name of the organisation and the town or city
− Dates do not have to be exact (Summer 2002 or June – Sep. 2001 will do)
− Include a short job description highlighting the duties and achievements which
are relevant to the job you’re applying for
− For chronological CVs also relate your experience to the skills required (See
page…)

Example 1: Chronological CV (Traditional)

Work Experience
Avoid too Summer 2003 Marketing Assistant: Sainsburys, London
much scene
setting – Skills Gained: Motivation / Organisation
how you
Co-ordinated a small research project team looking at customer responses to
show a skill
is more refurbished Sainsbury’s Stores. I initiated this internship myself, and negotiated my
important conditions and salary. At the completion of the project our team was awarded the
than when 2003 Sainsbury’s prize for the best contribution to Market Research.
or where
Oct 2002 – Present Fund organiser, Childline Relate past jobs to the
skills required in the job
you’re going for
Skills Gained: Analysis / Problem Solving
Childine was finding that it was not attracting quality volunteers and many calls were
going unanswered, I have been able to alleviate this problem by rerouting resources
and initiating a ‘triage’ system for new calls.
Outline how you showed
Summer 2002 Cashier: Tesco, Neasden each skill (“alleviated…by
rerouting and initiating”)
• Assisted in designing a questionnaire
• Analysed data using Excel
• Presentation to regional marketing managers
Less detail for
Summer 2000 Check Out Operator: Tesco, Fulham
less recent / less
relevant jobs
• Developed numeric skills and customer awareness
• Organised weekend work rotas
• Responsible for training new weekend staff

Dates easy to see

(reverse chronological order)
 9

Example 2: Chronological CV (Traditional)

If you have a lot of work experience you can split it
Relevant Employment up into ‘Relevant’ and ‘Additional’ experience

March - May 2000 and May - June 2001:

Birkbeck College, London University

• Research Assistant on the ‘Works of Robert Boyle and Correspondence of Robert Boyle’
− Proof correction and manuscript work, editing skills
September 2000 - May 2001 and September 2001 – present:
Queen Mary College, London University

• Teaching Assistant and seminar leader on first year Shakespeare course.

− Educational and communication skills including report writing; presentation and negotiation

Additional Employment

July - August 1996 and 1997:

KPMG Management Consulting

• Associate Researcher
− Conducting surveys, editing and compiling reports, IT, networking, professional and
communication skills with a wide range of clients

Example 3: Skills – Based CV

Brief outline of duties (relate to duties in the job you’re
applying for) – Skills come later in the skills profile
Work Experience
2002 – 2003 Sandwich Placement at John’s Consulting Engineers, Exeter
Duties included: Project management; strategic planning in a client –
focused environment

1999 – 2000 Gap year: Adventure Planner at Brighams Adventure Holidays

Duties included: Organising and managing water-based adventure
holidays for school aged children

1997 – 1999 Sales Assistant, Homestyle, Maidstone

(Vacations) Duties included: Retail sales and customer care Mixture
of bullet
1995 – 1997 Various holiday jobs including: points
and text
− Child – care
− Holiday camp entertainer
− Teaching assistant

For more examples refer to sample CVs (page 11)

 10

Interests
Relate your interests to the job you’re applying for just as you do for your education
and work experience. You have to pass the ‘So what?’ test

Example 1: Chronological CV Relate your interests to the skills

required in the job you’re going for

INTERESTS AND ACTIVITIES

Publicity Officer Oxfam: Arranged a publicity campaign. Gained experience in
delegation, proofreading text, desktop publishing, and working
under pressure to meet deadlines.

Treasurer Karate: Kept accounts for a committee of eight. Helped organise

a campaign to extend membership of club, which resulted in 50
new members.

Vice Captain University Football Team: Organised venues and fixtures for
three teams as well as playing in the First XI.

Example 2: Skills – Based CV Brief outline of activities – Make sure

you refer to them in the Skills Profile!
Interests / Achievements

• Music: guitarist in my own band which performs gigs in and around the London area
• Travel: Backpacking in Asia and North America
• Sport: University Hockey team player

References
Either: Include a professional referee (a current employer or one from your recent
past) and an academic referee (a tutor from your course, e.g. your personal tutor)

Or: Write – References available upon request

• Make sure you ask your referee’s permission to use them as your referee
and tell them what sort of work you’re applying for
• Include all contact details

Example
Academic Professional
References
Dr C H Glove Mr G Speed
Personal Tutor Market Research Division
School of History J. Sainsbury plc
University of Exeter Stamford Street
0123 765 4835 London SE1 9LL
drchg@exe.com 01238 456 7890
 11

Key Words
Before writing your CV highlight the key words included in the job description / personal
specification for the vacancy (and similar vacancies). Include these words as you write your
CV and when you’ve finished check to see if there all there.

Positive Action Words

• Avoid negative comments such as: ‘I feel I can’ / ‘I think I can’
• Use positive words:

Ability; achieved; analysed; administered; conceived; determined; enthusiasm; enhanced;

formed; guided; guaranteed; implemented; instigated; introduced; ingenuity; initiative;
judgement; lasting; launched; maintained; managed; merit; negotiated; organised;
performed; progress; planned; presented; promoted; redesigned; responsible; stability;
stimulated; surpassed; thorough

(For more positive words see Careers Booklet: ‘Action Words’)

Optional Sections
Personal Profile / Career Objective

CVs are increasingly prefaced with a personal profile and / or a career objective, usually
placed just below the personal details. The jury’s out at present as to whether employers
look favourably on them. On the one hand they may be viewed as a good way of
summarising a candidate’s abilities and experience, whilst on the other hand they are often
seen as a verbose, self-indulgent re-hash of what should be written in a covering letter.

Ask yourself if the profile is absolutely necessary (i.e. whether or not it will actually increase
your chances of securing an interview).

If you do decide to include a profile and / or career objective then make them specific,
substantiated claims, frame it in the third person (don’t refer to yourself as ‘I’ or ‘my’), and
use positive ‘action’ words.

Include personal qualities, experience, skills, and personal strengths

Some Examples

Career Profile

Science graduate with experience in health service management studying

management information systems, seeking to combine work and academic
experience in management consultancy in the health care industry

A Computer Science graduate with a keen interest in practical applications and

information systems, seeking a career where a background in problem-solving
would be an advantage
 12

Other Achievements and Additional Skills

Example

OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS & ADDITIONAL SKILLS:

I.T: Regular user of Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Maple 6 (mathematics software) and am
familiar with research on the Internet and using E-mail.

Brownie Leader: I am an active leader for the Brownies which involves taking girls on pack holidays
and day trips, helping to prepare badge work and developing evening meeting programmes and
developing. Improves stamina, imagination and patience.

Full clean driving licence held for four years.

Hints for Using Microsoft Word (Press Help within word for more guidance)
Tables
One way to align personal details and references is by using a table and colouring the lines white
so they’re invisible.
• To draw a table press ‘Table’ on the top bar, then press ‘Insert’ / ‘table’ and follow
directions
• To change colour line
− Press ‘Table’
− Press ‘Draw Table’
− On the toolbar which appears press the border colour button and change the colour to white
− Press the pencil button
− Go over the black lines with your pencil and turn the lines white

Example: Steve Davies

Table with
07936 414445
his8imp@seeds.com
black lines

Home Address: 26 High street Term address: 23 Ches Avenue

Fulham (From October 10) London
London SW3 4HP London LS6 9PL

Tel: 0123 735 6832 Tel: 01234 004 4801

Date of birth: 12 February 1982

Home Address: 26 High street Term address: 23 Ches Avenue

Fulham (From October 10) London
London SW3 4HP London LS6 9PL
Tel: 0123 735 6832 Tel: Table with 01234 004 4801
white lines
 13
Date of birth: 12 February 1982

Adjusting Margins
On the top bar press File / Page setup…

Bold Text
Highlight the text to be copied then either:
• On the keyboard press ‘Control’ and ‘B’ at the same time
• Or: Highlight the text then press ‘B’ on Formatting bar at the top of the
page

Cut Text
Highlight the text to be copied then either:
• On the keyboard press ‘Control’ and ‘X’ at the same time
• Or: Press the scissors icon on the standard toolbar

Copy Text
Highlight the text to be copied then either:
• On the keyboard press ‘Control’ and ‘C’ at the same time
• Or: Press the icon showing two pieces of paper on the standard toolbar

Paste Text
• On the keyboard press ‘Control’ and ‘V’ at the same time
• Or: Press the clipboard icon on the standard toolbar
 14
Aligning Text

Example CVs
PAGE

Chronological CV (Traditional) aimed at a job requiring research skills……… 12

Chronological CV (Traditional) aimed at a job in retail…………………………… 14
Skills - based CV for a science student aiming at a job in the service sector…. 16
Skills - based CV for an Informations Systems student aiming at a job in IT….. 18
Academic CV1………………………………………………………………………… 20
Academic CV1………………………………………………………………………… 23
 15

Chronological CV (traditional) - aimed at a job requiring research skills

Steve Davies Address

07936 414445 with dates
Clear,
his8imp@seeds.com
attractive
font
Home 26 High street Term address 23 Ches Avenue
Address: Fulham (From October 10) London
London SW3 4HP London LS6 9PL
Tel: 0123 735 6832
EDUCATION

2001–2004 University of London, BA (Hons) History (2:1 expected)

Key Modules:
Dates easy
to see • Qualitative Research Skills • Economic History
• Social Statistics • Politics in Post War Britain
• Market Forces • Tiger Economies: Dead or Asleep?
 16
•
Allocate space Post-war Europe and the USA
according to
importance
of qualification Skills Gained: Research
(more for degree Developed a comprehensive range of transferable skills within the fields of
than A Levels…) analysis and qualitative research. For my dissertation on the economies of South
East Asia I analysed and interpreted information from a wide range of sources
including the Internet, libraries and museum archives.

1993–2001 Westminister School for Boys, London

A levels: History (A), Geography (B), Maths (B)

GCSEs : 8 subjects all passed at grade “B” or above, including English
Language and Maths
Relate your degree and
work experience to the
WORK EXPERIENCE skills required in the job
you’re applying for
Summer 2003 Marketing Assistant: Sainsburys, London
Skills Gained: Motivation / Organisation
Co-ordinated a small research project team looking at customer responses to
refurbished Sainsbury’s stores. I initiated this internship myself, and negotiated
Reverse my conditions and salary. At the completion of the project our team was
chronological
order awarded the 2003 Sainsbury’s prize for the best contribution to Market
Research.

Oct 2002 – Present Fund organiser: Childline

Skills Gained: Analysis / Problem Solving
Childline was finding that it was not attracting quality volunteers and many calls
were going unanswered, I have been able to alleviate this problem by rerouting
resources and initiating a ‘triage’ system for new calls.

Avoid too much scene setting

Summer 2002 Cashier: Tesco, Neasden

• Assisted in designing a questionnaire

• Analysed data using Excel
• Presentation to regional marketing managers

Summer 2001 Fence building in Papua New Guinea

Skills Gained: Initiative and Problem Solving

Before I started University I wanted to travel, but also to help people in
some sort of voluntary capacity. Gap programs were all too expensive so
I looked at the projects they offered; subscribed to a cheap phone
company and contacted overseas organisations directly – within a week I
was on a plane to PNG

Summer 2000 Check-Out Operator: Tesco, Fulham

Use positive
• Developed numeric skills and customer awareness words
• Organised weekend work rotas
• Responsible for training new weekend staff
 17
INTERESTS AND ACTIVITIES
Relate interests to the job you’re seeking

Publicity Officer Oxfam: Arranged a publicity campaign. Gained experience

in delegation, proofreading text, desktop publishing, and
working under pressure to meet deadlines.

Treasurer Karate: Kept accounts for a committee of eight. Helped

organise a campaign to extend membership of club, which
resulted in 50 new members.

Vice Captain University Football Team: Organised venues and fixtures

for three teams as well as playing in the First XI.

ADDITIONAL SKILLS

• IT: Good knowledge of MSWord. Through my job at Sainsbury’s I also

gained valuable experience of spreadsheets and databases.
• Clean driving licence
• Conversational French

REFEREES
Academic Professional
Dr C H Glyns Mr G Spender
Personal Tutor Market Research Division
School of History J. Sainsbury plc
University of London Stamford Street
London LS2 9JT London SE1 9LL
01234 765 4835 01238 456 8679
chjk@leess.com jdjd@kkkl.co.uk
Include all contact details and make sure you’ve
told your referees before including their names

Chronological CV (traditional) for a science student aiming at a job in the Civil Service

LISA CARTWRIGHT
26 Stanley Park Gardens, London, London, LS2 9HG

D.O.B 17.05.81 D.O.B 17.05.81

Email-mail: bio6t3w@London.com Tel: 012342562478

EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS:

2001 – Present BSc (Hons) Biology, predicted 2:1 Relate your degree to the
skills required in the job
The University of London
you’re going for
Skills Gained:
Analytical Skills: Requisites for my Biology degree include problem solving, logical
Dates easy thinking and calculating. I enjoy using numbers to back up discussions.
to see
 18
Time Management: I am punctual and reliable through balancing education with
shift work in factories, sales and catering. I like to always be organised and present
myself well.

1999 – 2001 3 ‘A’ Levels; Biology (A), Physics (B) & Maths (C)
Cheltenham 6th Form College, Gloucester
1997 – 1999 10 GCSE’s (A* - B) including Mathematics, Science and English
Cheltenham High School, Gloucester Allocate space according to
importance
WORK HISTORY: of qualification (more for
degree than A Levels…)
April ’99 – present (vacations only)
Shop Assistant, Levi’s Store, Cheltenham
• Five years of retail vacation work has given me a wide knowledge of the structural
and procedural elements of a store, this relevant experience can be adapted to other retail
stores where loyalty and satisfaction of customers is paramount.
• The enthusiasm and initiative I showed towards the job enabled me to gain more
responsibility when last summer I was promoted to Acting Assistant Manager.
• My responsibilities included opening up, motivating, leading and persuading the
team of staff to deliver prompt and personal service, developing my communication and
interpersonal skills.

June ’99 – 2001 (vacations)

Various Sales and Catering positions through ADR Agency, Cheltenham.
• Worked within Fridge, Furniture and Coathanger to Crab, Chicken and Pizza!
• I advanced my operational and team skills in pressured and productive
environments, whilst working efficiently and effectively with a wide range of people
• I often took the lead role in a Coathanger factory, which involved co-ordinating the
line and training new recruits, thereby developing my organisation and communication
skills.

Sep ’99 – June 2001 Presenter on College Radio

Apr 2000 – June 2001 Presenter on ‘RSL Cheltenham’ 105.8FM

• These experiences helped to develop my confidence, enhancing also my
interpersonal and communication skills that enabled me to thrive and perform well in a
pressured and fast moving environment.
Reverse Relate your degree and work experience to the
chronological skills required in the job your applying for
order
June ’99-Mar ’01 Veterinary Assistant, Sunnybank Surgery, Cheltenham.
• Through dealing with worried, anxious and sometimes very upset clients, I further
developed my interpersonal and communication skills and tact.
• Excellent teamworking skills were developed with other staff when ensuring that
consultations, operations and other duties were successfully completed.

Apr’98-Aug’99 Bar Supervisor, Holiday Inn Plaza, Cheltenham.

• Through the responsibility of serving drinks, preparing light meals and stock control,
I demonstrated good customer service whilst coping with demanding requests in a
stressful environment.

OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS & ADDITIONAL SKILLS:

I.T: Regular user of Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Maple 6 (mathematics software)
and am familiar with research on the Internet and using E-mail.

Brownie Leader: I am an active leader for the Brownies which involves taking girls on
pack holidays and day trips, helping to prepare badge work and developing evening
meeting programmes and developing. Improves stamina, imagination and patience.
 19

Full clean driving licence held for four years.

Relate interests to the job
you’re seeking INTERESTS:

MUSIC: I have played the piano for many years and have reached Grade 6 practical
and Grade 5 Theory of Music.

SPORT: I was Captain of the Hockey and Tennis teams during my entire school years
and still pursue tennis now and regularly attend the gym.

SOCIETIES: I am also a member of the University Horse Riding Club and the Circus
Skills Society, which involve meeting regularly to discuss possible events,
teamworking on activities and co-ordinating events.

REFEREES:

1) Dr K.Smith, Head of Biology, University of London, London, West Yorkshire, LS2

9JT
Tel: 01234 233 5859 E-Mail: k.f.smith@London.com
2) Mr S. Jackson, Levi’s Store, Park Square, Cheltenham, Gloucester, GL24 4HG
Tel: 01652 248975 E-Mail: sjackson@levi.org.uk
Include all contact details and
make sure you’ve told your
referees before including their
names

Skills - based CV (for a science student aiming at a job in the service sector)

Cynthia Xiu Ehien Address with dates

Term Address: (Until July 20) Home Address (From July 20 – October 8):
23 Ches Avenue, 63 Deancroft Avenue
London Queensbury
LS6 9VQ London NW13 9EP
Tel: 01425 2537766 / 0151 4478321 Tel: 01233 205 1830 / 07845 345444

E-mail: cxw@hosmail.com Natonality: British

Date of Birth: 12 February 1981

Education & Qualifications

2000 – Present University of London MEng, Civil Engineering, 2:1 pass predicted
 20
Modules Include:
Research Methods Computing
Reverse Presenting Ideas to Clients Information Technology
chronological Surveying Mathematics
order

Dissertation on presenting computer aided designs to manufacturers with little or

no engineering background. This project involved regular communication and
presentation within a fast-paced service environment

1992 – 1999 Queen Mary’s Secondary School, Maidstone

A Levels: Chemistry (B), History (A), Mathematics (B)
7 GCSEs (B and above)
Dates easy to see
Work Experience
2002 – 2003 Sandwich placement at John’s Consulting Engineers, Exeter
Duties included: Project management; strategic planning in a client–
focused environment

1999 – 2000 Gap year: Adventure Planner at Brighams Adventure Holidays

Duties included: Organising and managing water-based adventure
holidays for school aged children Use positive words
1997 – 1999 Sales Assistant, Homestyle, Maidstone
(Vacations) Duties included: Retail sales and customer care

1995 – 1997 Various holiday jobs including:

• Child-care
• Holiday camp entertainer
• Teaching assistant

Interests / Achievements
• Music: guitarist in my own band which performs gigs in and around the
London area
• Travel: Backpacking in Asia and North America
• Sport: University Hockey team player
Tailor the headings in your skills profile according to
the skills required by each different employer
Relate your degree, work
experience, and interests to the
job you’re seeking
Skills Profile

Initiative : During my placement at Johns Consulting Engineers I was given

responsibility for a number of projects where I had to work independently to fulfill
key areas of the client brief. My interests always involve taking an active role in
'making things happen'. I formed a band at university in which I was the lead
guitarist and singer, and this group continues to meet at weekends.

Commitment: I needed considerable motivation and commitment in order to

maximize the benefits of my gap year in 2000. I wanted to travel and increase my
work experience in the service sector without incurring debt before I even started
 21
my degree! After an exhaustive search I found a very fulfilling job and earned
enough money to fund the trip of a lifetime to India and Canada.

Organisation: The key to my role at Brighams was the ability to organise a series
of holidays, from co-coordinating the bookings and liaising with the customers to
checking the equipment and planning advertisements in the local media. No matter
what aspect of the job I was working on, I was constantly aware of the fact that
there was a limited time in which to complete the day's tasks. Throughout my
studies I have also been able to allocate a certain amount of time to leisure
activities and work without allowing my studies to suffer.

Team-working: In various groups at University I was able to bring together a wide

range of opinions to ensure that we worked efficiently and achieved successful
results. My work experience has also allowed me to work with a wide range of
people. In addition, I am a member of the university hockey team. I particularly
enjoy the social interaction of this sport.

Communication: I have always achieved high grades in my written and oral work
at university. I have given a number of presentations in tutorials. My experience at
Homestyle and Brighams has also given me the skills and confidence to deal
effectively with the general public, as well as colleagues. Avoid too much
scene setting
Additional skills
• Full clean driving licence
• Conversational Spanish
• Excellent knowledge of web design and Windows-based computer packages

References available upon request

Skills - based CV for an Informations Systems student aiming at a job in IT

Mr. Richard Southern

12, Sutton Avenue, Wakefield, WF2 7TU

Home: 01924 2589674 Mobile: 077592365

E-mail: richardsouthern@yahoo. Tel: Date of Birth: 14 October 1978

EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS

1997 - 2000 BSc (Hons) Information Systems, 2:1

The University of London, West Yorkshire.
List relevant Modules / Projects
Modules included:
 22
Artificial Intelligence Operational Research
Database Management Office Automation
Human Computer Interaction Professional Development
Information Management Software Engineering
Information systems development/practice Criminal Law
Operating systems and communication Astrology

Final Year Project: ‘Learning styles of computing students’

1995 - 1997 3 ‘A’ Levels - Information Technology (B), French (C), Biology (C)
New College Sixth Form College, Pontefract.

1990 - 1995 9 GCSE’s (A* - C) including English and Mathematics

Kettlethorpe High School, Wakefield.
Relate your degree, work
SKILLS PROFILE experience, and interests to the
job you’re seeking
IT KNOWLEDGE
• Windows ’95, ‘98, NT 4.0 - Microsoft Word 6.0, 7.0, 97, Excel 97, Access 97,
• PowerPoint 9, FrontPage 2000 - Internet Explorer 5.5, Netscape Navigator - HTML,
SQL.

TEAMWORK
• Teamwork involving good listening skills, encouragement and negotiation was an
essential part of every group work exercise conducted at university to ensure a
successful result.
• Working as a Silver Service Waiter and bar assistant encouraged me to work efficiently
and competently in a team to please customers.

COMMUNICATION
• Good communication skills gained from conducting presentations in front of large
audiences consisting of both lecturers and students.
• Often being left in charge of the Queens Hotel Conference and Banqueting department
required excellent communication to fellow employees and to customers.
• As part of a module exercise, I was elected to be a mentor to a small group of Computer
Science first year students. Whilst monitoring their progression, the task expanded my
communication skills and encouraged me to listen and to be understood.
• My vast retail experience has led me to develop excellent customer service skills where
communication is a core tool. This also involved dealing with complaints and difficulties
calmly and professionally.
Tailor the headings in your skills
profile according to the skills
required by each different employer

LEADERSHIP
• Leadership qualities have been shown through numerous group exercises throughout
my university career where I adopt a dominant but yet supportive and positive role.
• Captaining a university rugby team required respect from team members, an essential
component of good leadership.

PROBLEM SOLVING
• Problem solving has been dominant throughout my education. It was an essential skill in
a number of modules such as operational research, database management and
information systems development.
• Often dealing with customer complaints and difficulties has led me to find solutions to
problems in a calm and efficient manner.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT
 23
My final year project allowed me to acquire essential project management skills, such as
written communication, self-management and problem-solving skills through a 300-hour
investigation and production of a 50-page report.

LANGUAGES
• French - intermediate written and spoken.
• German - basic understanding.

EMPLOYMENT SUMMARY

30/08/02 - 12/02/03 Website Co-ordinator. IT Direct, Westgate, Wakefield.

11/2001- 07/2002 Silver Service Waiter/Bar Assistant. Queens Hotel, London.

Vacations 2000/01/02 Retail Assistant. WH Smith, Nottingham.

Summer 1999/2000 Retail Assistant. Boots the Chemists, Nottingham.

ACTIVITIES AND INTERESTS

Travelling 6-month journey through Australia with en-route visits to Bangkok and
Singapore. This has undoubtedly been one of the most influential
experiences of my life. It has not only made me a more confident person but
has helped me to integrate with all nationalities and broaden my horizons.

Fund Raising I have helped in the fund raising campaign for the construction of my local
community centre, which eventually raised £400 000. I have taken part in
many sponsored events ranging from small local fun runs to marathons to
raise money for charities in Nottingham.

Sport I consider myself an extremely active person who enjoys a wide range of
sports such as rugby, long distance running, swimming and golf. I have been
a keen rugby player for many years and frequently compete in university,
departmental and national tournaments.

References
Available upon request

Three pages
Academic CV 1

John Smith
Address: 96 Green Road Email: j.smith@London.com
London Tel: 01234 275 3456
London Tel (work and/or mobile):
LS13 6HG Date of Birth: 20 September 1978

Education
2001 – 2004 PhD “Insert Title Here”
University of London
 24
Supervised by……. – due for submission… (E.g. autumn 2004)

Brief outline your thesis relating it to the post you’re applying for, e.g:
Outline projects undertaken and mention any collaborations with
industry. Think about the length of the paragraph – is it readable?

Consider bullet pointing key aspects that you want to highlight

Include: ‘A synopsis of the work carried out is attached’

2000 – 2001 MSc, Title

University of London
Dissertation – “Title”
Modules included: (List Relevant modules / Outline any relevant research)

1997 – 2000 BSc (Hons) 2:1, Title of Degree

University of London
Modules included: (List Relevant modules)

1995 – 1997 Sixth Form College, Birmingham

A Levels: Physics (A); Chemistry (B); Biology (B)

1990 – 1995 Comprehensive School, Birmingham

9 GCSEs: 8As, 1B

Research Interests

A couple of paragraphs on
• where your research interests lie
• what you are currently investigating
• what your future research plans are

Research Experience
Summer 2001 Research Assistant
Department of Chemistry, University of London
Successfully managed a six week research project to …………….,
under the direction of Professor X.

Outline what the work involved, i.e. novel approaches tried, what you
achieved, any further work carried out as a result of what you did –
mention any publications that have come from it.
Highlight deadlines that you had to meet, or budgets that you had to
work within.

What did you learn? Think about technical skills – for example
analytical techniques (e.g. NMR, Mass Spectroscopy and HPLC),
specialist software or particular research methodologies used.
 25

Teaching and Administrative Experience

2001 – 2004 Postgraduate Demonstrator, University of London
During my PhD I have been involved in supervising undergraduates
during their practical classes and was responsible for up to thirty
students.

10/03 – 04/04: Supervised a Masters student

10/02 – 05/03: Supervised a BSc student with his final year projects
In each case I was involved in assisting in project management,
development and completion.

Mention any marking or administrative experience gained.

1999 – 2001 Student Tutor, Campus Connect, University of London

Gave support to year 10 and 11 school pupils in maths and science
one-to-one and in groups

Outline any teaching experience gained.

Publications
1. Can include journal articles, conference papers, presentation and work in
progress etc.
2. Use the Harvard System to reference

Conferences and Courses Attended

1. Conference title, Where Held, When
2. E.g. Royal Society of Chemistry Annual Conference, York, September 2003
3. Or, Research Council’s Graduate School, October 10th – 15th 2002

Professional Memberships
Include if appropriate

IT Skills
Extensive knowledge of Microsoft Office programmes and proficient at using… -
include all specialist packages, e.g. SPSS, ChemDraw, CAD/CAM packages

Interests and Achievements

2001 – 2004 University of London Staff Cricket Team

2000 – 2001 Event Coordinator, A Student Society

Not as important on an academic CV.

References
 26
First Reference Second Reference [Another academic, preferably in a field
Research Supervisor related to the position applying for]
Full name and title Full name and title
Address Address
Phone number Phone number
Email Email

Attach

A synopsis of the work carried out on your PhD

Three pages
Academic CV 2
Jane Smith
Address: 96 Green Road Email: j.smith@London.com
London Tel (Home): 01234 275 3456
London Tel (Work or Mobile):
LS13 6HG Date of Birth: 20 September 1978

Education
 27
2001 – 2004 PhD “Insert Title Here”
University of London
Supervised by……. – due for submission… (E.g. autumn 2004)

Brief outline of what your thesis investigates, different projects

undertaken and mention any collaborations, e.g. with industry. Think
about the length of the paragraph – is it readable?

Consider bullet pointing key aspects that you want highlight

Full details in attached appendix

2000 – 2001 MSc, Title

University of London
Dissertation – “Title”
Modules included: List relevant modules / outline any relevant research

1997 – 2000 BSc (Hons) 2:1, Title of Degree

University of London
Modules included:

1995 – 1997 Sixth Form College, Birmingham

A Levels: Physics (A); Chemistry (B); Biology (B)

1990 – 1995 Comprehensive School, Birmingham

9 GCSEs: 8As, 1B

Research Experience

Summer 2001 Research Assistant

Department of Chemistry, University of London
Successfully managed a six week research project to …………….,
under the direction of Professor X.

Outline what the work involved, i.e. novel approaches tried, what you
achieved, any further work carried out as a result of what you did –
mention any publications that have come from it.
Highlight deadlines that you had to meet, or budgets that you had to
work within.

What did you learn? Think about technical skills – analytical

techniques, software packages used, or research methodologies.

Teaching and Administrative Experience

2001 – 2004 Postgraduate Demonstrator, University of London

During my PhD I have been involved in supervising undergraduates
during their practical classes, being responsible for up to thirty
students.

10/03 – 04/04: Supervised a Masters student

10/02 – 05/03: Supervised a BSc student with his final year projects
In each case I was involved in assisting in project management,
development and completion.
 28

Mention any marking or administrative experience gained.

1999 – 2001 Student Tutor, Campus Connect, University of London

Gave support to year 10 and 11 school pupils in maths and science
one-to-one and in groups.

Mention any teaching experience gained

Other Experience

1998 – 2000 Bar Supervisor, The Dragon Hotel, London

Initially worked as a silver service waiter in the conference and
banqueting team and then transferred to the wine and bar section.
Responsible for running three bars and required me to manage stock,
produce staff rotas and balance the tills.

Highlight skills that are relevant to the post you are applying for,
e.g. leadership, management, communication, etc.

Professional Memberships
Include if appropriate

IT Skills

Extensive knowledge of Microsoft Office programmes and proficient at using… -

include all specialist packages, e.g. SPSS, ChemDraw, CAD/CAM packages

Interests and Achievements

2001 – 2004 University of London Staff Cricket Team

2000 – 2001 Event Coordinator, A Student Society

This section is less important on an academic CV.

References

First Reference Second Reference [Another academic, preferably

Research Supervisor in a field related to the position applying for]
Full name and title Full name and title
Address Address
Phone number Phone number
Email Email

Appendix

Research Abstract

Summarise research carried out here. If you would normally describe your research
using diagrams then include them in your abstract for clarity.
Publications

1. Can include journal articles, conference papers, presentations and work in

progress, etc
 29
2. Use Harvard System to reference

Conferences and Courses Attended

1. Conference title, where held, when

2. E.g. Royal Society of Chemistry Annual Conference, York, September 2003

3. Or, Research Council’s Graduate School, October 10th – 15th 2002