Why is having a personal brand so important to your resume?

In the first of a new series in the basics of writing a CV, guest author Jessica Holbrook explains the importance of having a personal brand. Read »

Make your experience work for you

Recent grads and career changers often lack enough relevant experience. But make the most of what you've got to attract employers. Read »

4 Comments

How to write a CV with impact

If you're struggling to write a CV that conveys your value in a compelling and memorable way, take inspiration from some of the 2009 TORI (Toast of the Resume Industry) winning entries. Read »

1 Comment

How to avoid mentioning an embarrassing past

The decision of Dr Brooke Magnanti to out herself as the blogger behind Diary of a Call Girl is brave. She describes her colleagues at the Bristol Initiative for Research of Child Health as "amazingly kind and supportive", but I wonder if she would get the same reaction if she weren't a respected scientist. Read »

Avoiding common CV pitfalls

An unfocussed career history? Important information buried in a sea of text? Read »

2 Comments

The fine line between modesty and bragging

Your CV has to stand out if it's going to sell your skills and potential to prospective employers in a tough job market. But if you're a modest person, unused to taking the credit, how can you showcase your abilities authentically and naturally, without appearing to boast? Read »

No luck getting interviews?

If you're applying for jobs you're qualified for, but not getting anywhere (i.e. you're not getting any interviews) your CV may be the problem. There could be any number of reasons why your CV is letting you down - it's too generic, out-of-date, contains mistakes and so on - but how do you know where to start improving it? Read »

2 Comments

A less-than-perfect work history

If you don't have a perfect work history, how can you write a perfect CV? Should you try to gloss over gaps in your work history, or the fact you were fired from a job? In a recent Guardian article I've outlined some CV and interview techniques for minimising problems and strengthening your application. Read »

Breaking the rules of CV writing

There's a lot of conflicting advice from resume experts. They don't always agree with each other and it's hard to know who or what to believe. In the last week, for example, I've read one article debunking the myth of resume buzzwords, and another article saying exactly the opposite. Read »

2 Comments

How to put your references to good use on your CV

If you've got a glowing letter of reference from your last boss, including a quote from it on your CV is a great way to enhance your professional credibility. After all, it's not you shouting about your accomplishments or skills, but a more objective third-party, whose opinion will give your application extra weight. Read »