Your CV (Curriculum Vitae) is the first impression you give an employer — and in South Africa, where competition for jobs is high, a professional CV can make all the difference.
Here’s a simple guide to help you write a CV that gets noticed.
1. Keep It Clear and Concise
- Your CV should ideally be 2–3 pages long
- Use a clean, easy-to-read font (e.g., Arial, Calibri)
- Avoid unnecessary graphics or photos unless the industry requires it
2. Start with Personal Information
At the top of your CV, include:
- Full name and surname
- ID number
- Contact details (phone & email)
- Physical address
- Languages spoken
- Driver’s license (if applicable)
3. Write a Strong Career Summary
A career summary is a short paragraph (3–5 sentences) that tells employers who you are and what you bring. Example:
“Motivated sales consultant with 3 years’ experience in retail and customer service. Skilled in communication, upselling, and building long-term client relationships. Seeking an opportunity to grow within a dynamic company.”
4. List Your Work Experience
- Start with your most recent job
- Include job title, company name, dates, and key responsibilities
- Use bullet points for achievements (e.g., “Increased sales by 20% in 6 months”)
5. Add Your Education
- Include matric (Grade 12) and any further studies
- List institution, qualification, and year completed
- Add short courses or training relevant to the job
6. Include Skills
Employers look for specific skills. Examples:
- Computer skills (MS Office, Excel, Pastel)
- Communication & teamwork
- Problem-solving
- Industry-specific skills (e.g., plumbing, bookkeeping, sales)
7. References
Always add at least 2 references from previous jobs, with:
- Name
- Position
- Contact number
8. Use a Professional CV Template
A template helps your CV look polished and structured. You can create one in MS Word, Google Docs, or Canva.
👉 Free CV templates are available online. Start simple and adjust to your field.
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