A recruiter looking through a pile of CVs needs to see information in a certain way. In the same way, when we look at a menu in a restaurant, we expect to see starters, main courses, desserts and beverages laid out in a particular way. Failure to meet the readers expectations leads to confusion. Most people will put that CV straight into the “no” pile rather than waste their time trying to pick out information that should have been readily available

Your first and second name should sit prominently at the top of your CV. There is no need for second (or more) names to be added). Leave it as plain and simple as you can and avoid pretense at all costs. A shortened version of your Christian name is increasingly acceptable, for example, Fred not Frederick is very normal nowadays. Using the name with which you answer the telephone will be fine

Include your full, correct postal address along with post code or zip code as appropriate. Landline numbers are always a good idea. Personally, I would always include a home telephone number as well as a mobile number. If you don’t have a mobile yet, consider purchasing a cheap pay as you go mobile phone- it will definitely be worth it for you

Being able to see if your CV fits with the needs of the recruiter is very important. A brief paragraph at the top of your CV, called a career statement or personal profile should do the trick. Show how you can help a business, in what industry sector, what geographical area, at what level, and what track record can you point to with which to support your application. Basically, this should entice the recruiter to read more

Working from your most recent work achievements and moving backward, you need to pick out key achievements for which you have been personally responsible. Focus on achievements and not responsibilities. Nobody takes anyone on for those reasons alone. You really need to quietly sell yourself in this, the most important section of the CV. Make sure you are telling the truth as well- you may be called on to back up these claims with factual evidence at the interview or at some later date

Academic qualifications. These need to be listed with the highest level first. Typically, post graduate qualifications first, then first degree, then higher qualifications (A levels) then lower level qualifications (GCSE). List them in the following way. Qualification title, Educational Institute, dates

Professional qualifications, unlike educational qualifications are gained through a training provider, company, individual or other organization. They are very different from academic or educational qualifications and should therefore be listed in a separate section of your CV. Show your success in taking additional training courses, personal development and the like, and write them down in the order: qualification, service provider, certificate number (if appropriate) and date(s) as appropriate

The last section of your CV is made up of hobbies, interests, other information, etc. This information is a bit like the relish on a burger- not much use without the main ingredient, but it can make the difference between a memorable meal or just another snack. Your interests should be factual. Never put your actual date of birth on your CV. There are far too many people who may want to make use of this valuable personal information who may wish to use it to steal your identity