Job Search Strategies

Effective Applications

CV Formats

While a number of different formats exist, we have found three to be most effective for our students.

Chronological

You should start by mastering a Chronological CV, this is the traditional listing (in reverse chronological order) of the core information required and is particularly suited to recent / potential graduates.

Functional

The Functional CV is a more advanced format suited to those with a range of experience such as mature students / graduates.

Chronofunctional

However, the Chronofunctional is perhaps one of the most effective formats and one we encourage you to master. Basically it is a mixture of the first two.

In addition there are a number of key ingredients in a winning CV, including the use of appropriate Action/Power Words. The best way to learn about these is to attend one of our regular Seminars. Check our Events to find out when the next is scheduled. Once you learn the basics you can have a personal CV consultation.

While these formats are very successful in Ireland, it is important to realise that there may be different conventions in other countries. To learn about these we recommend The Global Resume and CV Guide (available in the John Paul 11 Library); in addition the Europass site provides a template to produce a Europass CV.

While there are lots of sites on CV's we recommend you download The Windmills Programme Creating a Winning CV .

Prospects also provide excellent advice on all aspects of the application process. In addition visit our CMS on-line's Making Applications Section.

last reviewed: 22/9/2009

last updated: Tuesday, 22-Sep-2009 11:38:41 IST