My CV Writing Schedule #9

The Best CV Format

Article Feature

There are many different types of CV available, so you may be confused as to which CV will best present your profile, skills, qualifications, and work experience. Before writing down all of the details, you should research the types of curriculum vitae that will present you and your career information in the best possible way. Doing so will help you create an effective CV - one that gets you chosen for interviews.

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There are six main CV formats: chronological, performance, functional, targeted, alternative, and universal. Other names are used for similar variations, including: hybrid, comprehensive, and brief.

Chronological CV is one that lists your education, work history, experience, etc. in reverse chronological order. This is the most widely used curriculum vitae; however, it may not be the best CV to use in your situation. If you have just graduated from college, for example, you may not possess an abundance of job-specific training, work history, or professional experience. This type of CV is more suitable for a person who has performed well in his or her career and has plenty of information to list in a chronological manner.

Performance CV is similar to the chronological CV; however, you can add achievements along with the information that is provided in chronological order. This might include awards earned at a school or company. This format is great for those with plenty of job experience to put on display.

Functional CV is one that focuses on your career functions (i.e. a more lengthy description of your skills). This format is often used by individuals or managers who are seeking a position in a different field. This type of CV is also good for trades people or technical employees who are working on short-term contracts.

Targeted CV is one that focuses on a specific vacancy within a company. With this type of CV, you only list education and work history that is relevant to the specific position. This format is used by people who have been employed in various fields, but wish to focus on one particular job area or a specific job vacancy.

Alternative CV is one that is often used by creative people or for creative positions. An individual can be more flamboyant and add more personality to an alternative CV. This type is used by people who want to advertise themselves, rather than their achievements.

Universal CV can be a mix of all of the above. If you are confused about which type of CV to use, this is the safest one to present to prospective employers. Choosing this format is usually the best way to get the attention you deserve if you are writing your own CV. This CV format will display the pertinent information you need in order to be chosen for an interview.

Mike Kelley is a professional CV writer, with expertise in writing a wide variety of CVs for all types of employment.