A good Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume should say just enough, but not too much, about you, your background and your work experience.

You may have previously been advised to start with a brief summary indicating what makes you special. Don't. A well-constructed CV will speak for itself. There is nothing more off putting than seeing a few lines packed with subjective age-old cliches like:

Use a covering letter to explain why you are applying to a particular firm. Avoid using a standard letter. After the salutation put a short heading in bold stating what type of Functional Apps Consultant you are:

If you are responding to an advertisement, research the firm in question and tailor your letter accordingly. Avoid repeating 'verbatim' the qualities the firm states it is looking for in suitable applicants. It simply demonstrates a lack of thought and imagination.

Remember, on average, the client will take only two minutes to consider a CV. HR personnel may give the matter a little more consideration but not much more. Your CV must therefore be clear, concise (ideally no more than 2 pages), easy to read and devoid of any mistakes.

Finally, do not underestimate the importance of presentation. Take the trouble to submit a neat and legible letter and a CV printed on good quality paper. If you're not prepared to represent yourself in the best possible light, then how will you represent the firm?

cv sample guide

We have provided a framework to help you put a CV together. It is only a guide. As with everything, it is important that you express your own individuality.

	YOUR NAME
	Contact details Address Telephone Numbers Fax Number E-mail address Date of birth Availability Nationality (Where applicable indicate right to work) Preferred Location/s Education Dates   School            Number of GCSEs            'A' Levels (Grades and subjects) Dates   University            Degree and class of degree. Professional Qualifications Dates Qualification Details            Electives Skills Overview (Don't be shy, BE Accurate) Employment history (Start with your most current or recent position, followed by others in descending order) Dates   Current Employer, Location            Job Title, Dates Employed, Skills Used, Brief outline of duties and tasks            highlight any significant achievements Details of transactions/cases worked on including your level of personal involvement, the type of transaction/case, the parties involved and the value of the deals/disputes (where permitted). Dates   Previous Employer, Location             Job Title (The rest is the same as the Current Employer)