Free CV Template

Free CV Template

When applying for some job positions in your country and internationally, the employer may request for a Curriculum vitae (CV). More than a resume, a CV includes much more information such as your education, academic achievements, awards, affiliations, research, publications, etc. It is therefore important that you take extra care when compiling a CV.

What is a CV and Why is it Important?

A Curriculum vitae (CV) is often seen as an overview of a person’s life ‘s work. It includes every possible career information about a person. As a result, CVs are lengthier than a resume. Whereas a resume is best set at one page, a CV’s average length ranges between 2-3 pages.

When are CVs needed? It’s important to know that CVs are primarily used when applying for academic, education, research or scientific positions. A CV can also be needed when applying for grants or fellowships.

Okay, why do you need this thing? Asides from helping you win gigs, CVs are great reminders of what you’ve achieved in your career. Your CV also helps you identify shortcomings in skills, qualifications and work experience. Not only that, a CV sets the tone for any future job interviews. There can be no doubt now: you need a CV.

What Should I Include in My CV?

Unlike resumes, CVs are a more detailed synopsis of your career to date. CVs are well-formatted at two to three pages. Should your CV be longer, it must be clear, concise, complete and recently updated with all relevant employment and academic information.

The elements of a curriculum vitae depend strongly on the job you’re applying for. However, some vital information needs to be incorporated into your CV for it to be called that. CV’s revolve around relevant information. So ensure you have compiled the best information that supports your candidacy.

Here is a free format of a typical CV:

• Personal Details and Contact Info
• Education
• Qualifications
• Work experience, aka employment history
• Skills

The above elements are all you’ll need to compile a suitable CV for presentation. What you shouldn’t include though are your photo, revious pay package, reasons for quitting your previous job and references of any sort (except the employer requests it).

What is the Right CV Length?

A typical Curriculum vitae (CV) covers about two to three pages. There are lengthier CVs though, and nothing stops you from having a longer CV. Should you choose to have an extensive CV, you must ensure that the content is easy to understand, well structured, absolutely concise and extremely relevant.

How to Properly Format Your CV

• Before you even draft your CV, make research on curriculum vitae formats online. Many job positions have unique formats, therefore CV adjustment is needed to match whatever position being applied for.
• Next, check the format. Ensure white space is maximized, formatting consistent and print review is spot on.
• Keep the content short and well organized
• Be as honest as you can be. Most employers do background checks on employees.
• Proofread your CV. Nothing annoys the recruiters more than typos and grammatical errors.

The Big Catch

To ease your CV format decision, use our online builder to make topnotch CVs that intrigue the employer. Rather than downloading or using offline templates that just don’t cut it, make the best CV with our online resume builder. Try it out now.