"Only a piece of paper" is what some say about a CV, but your CV is single most important document you will ever be involved with in your life. This piece of paper, like it or not, will shape your future. The Latin term 'Curriculum Vitae' actually translates to 'Course of Life'. If your CV doesn't appeal to the reader then it is unlikely to get a second glance. So let's face it, if you don't put the effort in here, you are making a monumental mistake. It's as simple as that.

There are endless different opinions on how to write curriculum vitae. Whatever guidelines you use you must not forget that it is the most important marketing document you will write in your life.

• To ensure you do not miss out on any vacancies you must try to keep your CV. up-dated at all times.
• Customise the CV for each job you apply to. Vary emphasis on information that is most relevant to job you are applying for.
• Above all, your CV must be professionally written and easy to read with no spelling mistakes.
• Use plain coloured paper and black or blue ink. If you are unable to sell yourself through your CV, you will not convince reader, you will be an asset to their establishment.
• Feel confident and knowledgeable about everything you have written - you will most likely be questioned about it during interview.
• Use positive words throughout your CV for example: achieved, completed, delegated, organised, managed.
• Keep sentences short. If you have lot of information to say use bullet points e.g.
• Oversaw a team of ten people Worked with budget in excess of one million pounds
• Use headlines to help reader scan CV for example: January 98 - March 1999 XYZ Health Company - Area Manager
• Write in third person so you can give yourself credit without appearing brash, e.g. Jamie has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field of sales and marketing. Or, Lesley has consistently reached above sales targets for last eight months.

You would be well advised to miss out following details as they clutter the CV and can be mentioned at a later date.

• Salary details - either current or expected
• Reasons for leaving last employer - if not obvious
• Health details - unless chronic illness that would affect ability to work
• Children’s names/ages
• Negative information, words or phrases
• References - these can be given at latter stage
• Keep the CV to a maximum of two to three pages long. Do not write a book!
• Covering Letter