List your evidence to demonstrate that you meet each of the recruiter’s criteria, and make sure this is covered in your CV. Include evidence from study, full- and part-time work, voluntary work, social activities or life experience.

For example, think about an academic project. What was involved in terms of planning, research, problem-solving, analysis or presentations?

Typical examples might include:

• ’I was given a brief to edit a magazine in three months. I analysed the initial tasks I had to complete, before setting interim deadlines. Research was problematic as many internet contacts failed to respond and I had to risk amending both the design and my deadlines to meet the closing date. I achieved a 2.1.’
• Are you a mature student who has managed the commitments of full-time study and looking after a family? Mention your ability to juggle priorities to meet your deadlines.
• Have you undertaken any casual work? You may have learned to relate to different people, to work on your own initiative and to meet targets. You could include examples such as, ’Temping has given me an understanding of different environments and management styles. I have learned to adapt to new systems quickly and easily.’
• Have you undertaken a work placement? If so, you’ll be able to demonstrate technical abilities, teamwork, self-management skills and communication skills. For example, ’On my placement I learned to think on my feet when it came to technical problems, as I was often working alone. I also designed and delivered an induction package for the sandwich students replacing me.’

If you can, focus on achievements. It’s important to give recruiters a sense that you have completed a task successfully. Think about how you might measure that success (eg met your targets or received an award or commendation).

Step 3: CV layout