CV Creating and Guide

Your CV or Resume will need to cater for the role for which you are intending to apply. Below are our top-ten general tips on creating a working holiday CV or Resume.

1.)  Ensure spelling and grammar is correct – there is nothing worse than a spelling mistake to end your job prospects.

2.)  Keep it short – try not to exceed two pages. Short and concise CV’s are universally what employers are looking

3.)  Leave out irrelevant work information – focus your CV on the job you are applying for. Detail current and recent work only.

4.)  Be flexible – always adapt the CV and covering letter to suit the job you are applying for. Always review your documentation prior to sending it out.

5.)  Demonstrate significant responsibilities in previous roles – document budgeting and/or cash handling experience.

6.)  ‘Sexy it’ up – if you have worked with celebrities, or big commercial brands always illustrate this in your CV as recognizable names demonstrate who you have worked with in the past.

7.)  Skills – it is important to document computer, IT and administrative skills.

8.)  Languages – if you speak more than one language certainly include this in your CV as employers are always impressed.

9.)  Education – outline your education but refrain from nominating specific grades/marks. Employers will look at the level of education you have achieved at and at additional training and education you have 
undertaken such as hospitality/bar and graphic design courses.

10.)  Visa – always nominate your current visa type.

Other points to consider when creating your CV or resume:

* Personal attributes – Avoid fluffy personality attributes (such as highlighting your wonderful personality or the fact that you are a hard worker and so on). Stick to facts and showcase your work experiences and educational qualifications.

* Personal interests – Including a hobbies / interests section in your CV and or mentioning such aspects in your covering letter is a good idea, however do not let this information surpass your relevant work or transferable experience and skills.

* Photos – A photograph of yourself can make your CV more personalised and help you stand out from the vast number of other applicants.

* References – How you document your references depends on the country you are in. In the UK you will just need to state ‘References upon request’ at the end of your CV. In places such as the US, Canada and Australia, it is standard practice to list a few specific referees with their contact details. Have references from people from your home country and, if possible, the country in which you looking for work. This gives the employer more choice of people to speak to.

* Charity and volunteering – add in any charity / volunteering work you have undertaken or been involved in. This is very important and demonstrates a wider set of experience and a willingness to be involved.

The Guardian is an excellent resource for other ideas on creating a CV or resume: http://jobs.theguardian.com/cv-advice/