Career Series Part 1: Your CV And Cover Letters

Your CV is your digital handshake and the first thing your potential employer sees. Here's how to make a great first impression.

The tech market is growing rapidly and there's an increase of talent. This makes your CV a really important tool to help you stand out from the crowd.

Your CV should always be role specific and provide a brief, but full account of your working life, including your interests and academic achievements.

• Personal Information - Name - Address - Telephone number - Email address - DOB (optional) 
• Employment History - List your employers in date order (starting with the most recent) - The role you held in each company - A short summary of your tasks and responsibilities
•  Education - GCSE's & A-levels (or equivalent) - Degree - Any other professional training or qualifications - Relevant skills 
• Interests - What you like to do outside of work 
• Referees -Whether they can be contacted

COVER LETTERS 

Some roles require you to submit a cover letter. It should be a short statement to summarise your CV, highlighting why you're right for the job. Remember to tailor your cover letter to every position you apply for. Here's an example:

Dear Name (or Sir/Madam as appropriate), 

Opening Paragraph: Identify yourself; state what position you're applying for and where the vacancy was advertised. 

Second Paragraph: Cover: why you're interested in the job/work and why the company appeals to you. Mention your academic background, relevant qualifications and related work experience. 

Third Paragraph: Mention that you've enclosed your CV/completed application form - and cover any additional points of relevance. 

Finally: Close with the following: your availability to interview, your expected salary (or current package), and a positive final sentence to encourage a positive response. 

Yours Sincerely, 

Your name