You use it whenever an employer asks for it in a job advert. If they say "apply in writing" they mean send a CV with an accompanying letter or email. Recruitment agencies will usually ask for one when you register with them. It is also used on the occasions when you are asking to be considered for a job, even though one is not advertised - this is called making a Speculative Application.

In the first stage of selection all the employer knows about you comes from the CV and the letter or email that comes with it. Make sure it gives a good impression. Your CV should be well organised, with a logical structure and a businesslike appearance.

The content should be relevant to the job you're trying to get. Don't include masses of detail about everything you've ever done and expect the employer to pick out the best bits. Concentrate on the relevant information and describe other things more briefly.

The CV templates in MS Office provide a source of design suggestions but they are very inflexible. It's easier to create your own document in Word, copying the layout of a template which you like.

Further Information

These sources provide lots of guidance and examples of CV's in various formats for different sorts of jobs.

• View the "CVs and applications" video - a quick guide to boosting your employability.
• Explore different types of CVs on www.Prospects.ac.uk website
• Explore Destinations® website for information, activities and video clips on writing your CV.
• Have your draft CV or Letter checked by a Careers Adviser at one of our drop-in sessions or as part of a Careers Interview. To find out when the next drop-in session is or to book an appointment, contact us.
• Collect the free booklet Applications, CVs and covering letters (AGCAS) from the Careers Service for more CV examples.
• Careers Service Leaflets on Writing Your CV for undergraduates, postgraduates and students applying for placements, including an example CV and a model covering letter. Find these in on our Information Leaflets page.