FAQs: What is a CV?

CV is the abbreviation for 'curriculum vitae'. A document used to display your skills, education and employment history to potential employers in the UK. A CV should be kept to two pages. This may vary when applying for jobs in other countries, for more information check out the applying for jobs pages in country profiles.

Your CV should identify the skills required for the applied position and show that you have the correct attributes. If the job description expects you to have teamwork skills and good IT skills, then these are exactly the attributes you need to promote.

You can demonstrate your skills by outlining your education, extracurricular activities and employment. Transferable skills gained in the workplace are especially attractive to employers and keep examples recent (within the last two or three years).

The layout and content is dependent on personal preference. To find out more, see CVs and cover letters.