How to Write a CV

Technical & Business English

Prof. Bea Bataller
 Tips to get a better CV
1. Consider the preferences of the
employer.

» VICE magazine or BBC?

» Funky vs. Conservative style?
 Conclusions:

– Keep it SIMPLE and CLEAN, but show your

creative flare. (E.g. layout, typo)

– Have different versions for different

employers.
 1. The Layout
• The body text should be clean and easy to
read.

• Save fancy/wavy type to your name, if you

use it at all.
 1. The Layout
• Use contrasting typefaces to organise
and separate the text.
 1. The Layout
• Headers should be bold and contrasting
from the body text.
 1. The Layout
• Strong alignment to create lines and order.

• Effective leading and spacing to give a

good balance.
 Tips to get a better CV
2. Avoid adding too much information:

- Be concise and go straight to the point.

- Discard unnecessary headings and irrelevant details.
- Use short sentences. Avoid unnecessary words.
- Use appropriate vocabulary.
 Tips to get a better CV:
Compare the following CVs:

-Which one would you present for a job in a

design website? Why?

-Would you use the 1st one at all? Why?

 3. Work Experience:
• 4. Include many facts
• Beneath each position you should list:
Duties
Achievements
Responsibilities

And always write in a slightly formal manner and

never use the word "I" - e.g. "Supervised the
team" rather than "I supervised the team".
 5. Send a covering letter

• Highlight the areas of experience from

your CV that are most relevant to the
advertised job.