A CV or 'Curriculum Vitae' is a short document (usually 2 sides of A4 paper in length), that lists and summarises your qualifications and training and your work experiences, as well as your main achievements. 

 

Having a good quality CV is essential for anyone considering looking for employment. 

 

Some employers request that you complete one of their own application forms and specify for you to not send a CV.  However, having your own CV will make completing an application form so much easier, as you will have the majority of the key information that is requested at hand.  It will save you having to 're-trawl' through your folder of certificates and achievements each time.

 

If an employer has requested a CV, before sending, you should be re-visiting and re-tweaking for every job you apply for, as it is important to demonstrate that it is focused on the role you are applying for. The employer needs to feel it is ONLY THEM you are applying to, and not just sending out a generic or vague CV to anyone and everyone. 

 

It is for this reason, it is strongly recommended that if you are applying for more than one area of work, that you have a CV per job area, that is focused on the skills that are the most relevant for that particular role.  For example; if you applying for roles as a care assistant, as well as administration roles, you would need TWO CVs. One that would focus on your experiences and qualifications in a care setting and the other that demonstrates your skills and experiences working in an office environment.

 

CVs are also an excellent way of applying to organisations 'speculatively'. That is that there may well be an organisation you would like to work for, but there are no known current positions advertised. Together with a speculative covering letter, you can send your CV to employers, in the hope there may be a position in the future.  I have personally got a job interview myself by doing this!