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CVs and covering letters: advertising your value

Your CV and covering letter is your chance to show an employer the best of what you've got. It's about selling your skills and experience, and showing them you're the right person for the job.

How you write your CV and covering letter is up to you, but there are some basic rules to follow if you want to create the best impression. And don't be worried if this is your first CV - with our help you'll soon have a professional CV and covering letter that are ready to be sent out and get you interviews.


Create a CV

If you haven't done a CV before, this is the place to start. Our CV Builder uses a step-by-step approach to gather all the information you need to create your first CV. All you need to hand is your personal details, and your education and work history.

CV Builder


What to put in each section

Want to know if you should put your age in your personal details section? Or if you need to list your referees at the end? Find out what to include and what to leave out in each section of your CV.

Read our section-by-section advice


Your questions answered

Find out the answers to common CV questions like how long your CV should be. And read about why it's never worth lying on your CV....

Read our FAQs


Choosing a CV format

Using different CV formats helps to draw employers' attention to your most relevant and saleable skills and experience. Find out which format will put your experience in the best light.

Find out about different CV formats


Write a covering letter

Don't let your covering letter be an afterthought. A great covering letter is your chance to wow employers with your enthusiasm and highlight the most relevant parts of your CV.

Read more about how to write a covering letter


Contacting the National Careers Service

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