CVs

CV booklet

We've put together a guide in creating an effective CV, it features help supported by our Top 10 tips

CV and cover letter resources

Take a look at resources and advice on CVs and cover letters

Book a CV appointment

Once you've built and checked your CV, book an appointment with one of our qualified Careers Advisers for a CV review.

Our Top 10 CV tips

How to…create a CV and cover letter

How can you catch an employer’s attention with your CV and cover letter? Learn the tools to make your application stand out from the crowd.

  • Look at our examples to find a structure that you can follow as a template.
  • Think about how you intend to use your CV.
  • Check and recheck your spelling, punctuation and grammar.
  • Use space: key statements stand out better against a white background.
  • Have a 'profile' of no more than two sentences at the top.
  • Use a simple and professional e-mail address e.g. not lazydaisy@hotmail.com.
  • Don’t disclose your full postal address on your CV. Just putting your location is fine e.g. Location: Huddersfield
  • Always tailor and customise your CV each time you use it.
  • CV length: two sides of A4 is enough.
  • Use one clear font and don't overuse underline, bold or italic.
  • Keep it well defined with headings and bullet points.
  • Keep the chronology consistent.
  • Put 'references available on request' on your CV. You don’t need to list your references or include their contact information.
  • Watch our video '10 Top Tips for a successful CV' below!

Top 10 CV tips video

Here is a Top 10 CV tips video developed by our Careers Advisers. It builds on the top tips listed above and demonstrates how you should implement those changes.

This video can be adopted for any type of CV, whether you are applying for a part-time role, a placement or a graduate level role. 

Take a look at our guide on CVs 2023 for any more support.

Useful links

Prospects - A leading website resource to see a variety of example CVs including classic, creative, and video CVs

targetjobs - Explore a variety of resources to help you develop your CV

Vitae - Advice on preparing an academic CV