How to write a CV in South Africa
When it comes to writing a CV in South Africa, there are a number of things you need to take to heart. The informations contained in your CV and how they are presented is one of the important things employers wants to see, you need to ensure your CV is very simple. Only add information that would interest the employer. However, at some point in time, you can add additional information, that you can later expand or talk on when you are called for an interview.
How do I write a CV 2022 in South Africa?
The following are the important details you need to add on your CV:
Your Name and Personal Information: Including your name is obviously vital, but what other personal information should you include? You should always add your contact details to this section, a mobile number and Email address should be enough. Just make sure that you are reachable on whatever contact details you provide. As far as other personal information goes only add information that is vital for your application, this is industry and job specific.
A CV objective statement: If you are having a problem fitting all your information into 2 pages then you can leave out an objective statement. An objective statement gives you a chance to introduce yourself and highlight your goals and ambitions.
Provide your Employment History: This is the most important section of your CV. Make sure that it is well formatted and easy to read. Your employment history should run from your most recent backwards so that your current or last position is displayed first. Try to identify any large gaps in your employment history and make sure that they are explained on your CV.
Indicate Your Education History: Keep this section quite short. You do not need to expand to much on your education unless you achieved any exceptional results during your studies. Generally speaking just listing your qualification achieved, the year obtained and the institution where you studies should be enough.
Notable Skills: Only list skills that you actually possess. This section does not need to be very long, but it can be useful to grab the reader’s attention. Make sure that you list skills that are appropriate for the job vacancy which might mean that you need to rewrite this section for each job application.
Contactable References: This is a very important section. Hiring managers are always going to want to contact a manager or supervisor from your previous job. I recommend listing 2-3 contactable references. Make sure that you let your references know that you have listed them as a reference.
Do I have to add a cover letter to my Application in South Africa?
In South Africa, a well written, professional cover letter can set you up for success before you have even been called for an interview, if it is done right. A cover letter gives you a chance to show off your personality and expand on your achievements before even meeting the hiring manager.
How many pages should a CV be South Africa?
In South Africa, the length of your CV shouldn’t be more than 2-3 A4 pages, so keep it concise and to the point. Use positive language: Use power words when describing work achievements
How should a South African CV look like?
A CV should be short and to the point. Include: Personal information including surname; first names; date and country of birth; identity number; male/female; married/single; state of your health; driver’s license; address and contact numbers.
