Todays blog post will probably be a less interesting read, I’d probably skip over it as I’m going to be explaining and reflecting on the yes and no’s of CV writing. A CV is a snapshot of your life, a summary of relevant skills, knowledge and experiences compiled into a few pages, 1-2 preferably. A CV is quite simply used to sell yourself, in my case, to sell myself as a freelance designer.
I was lucky today to have an expert in CV writing visit my class to help us start our CVs, tailored to Film, TV, and Stage design. As a designer I need to remember to BE a designer! I want to showcase my creativity and I want to highlight my personality through my best skills and qualities.
Pay attention to the layout! Finding the balance between function and presentation can be difficult but it’s doable, finding the middle ground is the best way forward. As employers could see hundreds of CV’s everyday so mine needs to make a big impact. Containing the right information is key to making an impression in those first few seconds of looking at a CV, and of course it needs to be READABLE.
What to include in a CV..
Throughout the last year and a half I have learnt and developed a multitude of skills. During this session we delved into some of the projects we had done and figured out relevant skills that would look good on our CVs. To mention a few, team work and group projects, which shows evidence of communication, negotiation and planning in advance skills. Following a brief, understanding a brief, research and analysis and working to a deadline are all useful skills to put on a CV.
What not to contain..
Spelling mistakes are a huge no. Making silly spelling mistakes will show laziness, a lack of attention to detail and it will be blatant that I have not proof read it. Keep the font the same, don’t mess around with fonts that are difficult to read or different sizes. Make sure the grammar is correct and try not to have too much of a casual tone, balance is key. Try not to involve unnecessary information or waffle, it needs to be quick to the point. Similarly, don’t lie. Make sure there is enough evidence to back up anything on the CV.
How to start..
To start the CV I’m going to identify the main areas of my life, including education, work experience, activities and any interests. Contain personal details like an email, or a number. I will also be trying to use positive language such as; gained, achieved, contributed as this shows evidence and stays away from the cliché.
Ordering..
Who you are.
How to contact you.
What you can do.
What you can offer.
Comments