• It should be a simply written outline of your scholastic and working history.
• Do not write in longhand unless it is a stated requirement.
• Use a clear businesslike typeface and do not use coloured paper (it does not photocopy well).
• Start with your full name, address, phone numbers, date of birth and nationality.
• Introduce yourself with a Personal Profile of about 100 words giving a resume of you, your experience and strengths/skills applicable to the position that you are applying for.
• Put the most recent employment or achievement first and continue in reverse order to the most distant in time.
• Keep details brief but to the point.
• Give names of previous employers and relevant dates.
• Tailor your CV to the job for which you are applying.
• Don't expand on items that have little relevance.
• Tell the truth. A lie that is found out will not only lose you this application - it could damage your future chances.
• Make the most of the positive aspects that apply to this position by devices such as bullet points (but no more than three or four).
• Educational achievements have less significance the longer you have been in employment, unless they are specific to the job.
• Hobbies and pastimes can indicate qualities of initiative and leadership - but a long list of leisure pursuits may create the wrong impression.
• Give at least two references, preferably recent tutors or employers. Check with them first that they will act as referees.
• If this is your first job remember to include any work experience or voluntary work.
• Try to limit your CV to two to three pages - and that doesn't mean reducing the type size to make it fit!
• Check what you have written and get someone whose opinion you value to check it too. Spelling mistakes and incorrect names will lead to an immediate thumbs down.
• Your CV is a passport to an interview and a prospective job. Its purpose is to convince an employer that you are worth considering for the advertised post.

Out of maybe 100 applications only a dozen may be selected at the CV stage. So write for the employer - not for yourself.

Have a look at Common Resume Blunders by Kim Isaacs

The following is a list of suggestions to consider when called for interview, we strongly suggest that you prepare for your interview, you generally get only one chance to make the right impression.

• Research the company to familiarise yourself with their activities using website or company literature, to enable you to ask relevant questions on your interview.
• Re-read job specification before your interview.
• The typical "dress code" for all office based interviews is smart and well groomed.
• Check the route to the company and parking facilities if driving. It is advisable to aim to arrive 10 minutes before your interview time
• During the interview try and answer all questions to the best of your ability and ask relevant questions about the company and the position you are applying for.
• Do not make claims regarding your experience you cannot substantiate.
• Always switch off your mobile phone!

Relax and GOOD LUCK!