Your CV is your chance to show employers what you have to offer. But with so many applicants for every job, it can be tough to stand out from the crowd. Don't worry, we're here to help!
A CV is the first impression that any employer has of you. The aim is to tell your potential employer what experience you have and what skills you’ve picked up to make you a great person for the role that they are recruiting. You want to keep your CV short and to the point; here are some things you should include:
Name & contact details
Work history
Skills (optional)
Education & Qualifications
Licences & Certificates (optional but preferred)
Awards & Achievements (optional)
Referees
We've included an example CV for you to use as a template at the end of this blog.
Personal Information
This one might seem pretty obvious, but we need to know who you are and how to get in touch with you.
We need to know your:
First & last name
Phone number (mobile is fine)
Email Address (so we can email you payslips & other important info)
Location (so we can try and place you somewhere close to your home!)
Tips:
Make sure your email address is work appropriate. bunnylover_123 probably isn’t a good work email address. Try something simple with your name or initials.
Often we’ll give you a call first, so please make sure your voice message says your name (so we know we are leaving the message for you) and isn’t offensive.
Objective or Summary
Write a brief statement that summarizes who you are and what you hope to achieve in your next role. Keep it concise and to the point - think of it as your elevator pitch.
Work History
It’s okay if you haven’t had much experience – you can put any volunteering or unpaid work in this section. Alternatively, you can skip this section and go to the skills section, which demonstrates how to list any skills you may have picked up along the way.
We need to know:
Job title
Company/employer you worked for (or organisation if it is volunteer work)
Job Location
Dates you worked
A breakdown of what you did there or skills you learnt on the job
If you have received any awards, include them here too. This is a great opportunity to showcase your achievements and demonstrate how you stand out from other candidates!
Tips:
Start with the most recent jobs at the top and then work backwards.
Don’t include every job you’ve had, just the most recent ones, only go back the last 5 years or so.
If there is something you did at a past job that relates to the job you are applying for, make sure you list it – that way we’ll know you can do the job!
Education
This is where you list your education and qualifications you have achieved. You can list high school (the highest qualification gained) or University, but only include this if you completed (or are still attending) the course.
You can list:
Qualifications you earned
The school/uni/course you attended
Start & finish dates or the course completion date
Any awards or recognition you got that could support your application
Licences & Certificates (optional but preferred)
If you are applying for a role that requires you to have a specific licence or have any certificates you think would be of use, you should include them in this section. If you don’t, don’t worry – just skip this section altogether.
We need to know:
What licence/certificate you hold
If the licence has a number, please include this
Expiry Date
Skills (optional)
List any relevant skills you have, including soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Consider using keywords related to the job you're applying for to make sure your CV stands out. Don't forget to mention other skills that could be beneficial, such as your driver's license or language proficiency.
We want to know:
What skill you have
Where you demonstrated or learnt that skill
Referees
You need at least two, preferably three, references who we can contact prior to your employment. Usually your references will be a past employer but if you do not have any past employers, list a lecturer, teacher or other credible person who can support your application. We usually ask not to include family members or friends.
If you do not want to include this on your CV, you can put ‘Referees available on request’.
We need to know their:
First and last name
Job position
Relationship to you
Phone number
Tip:
Make sure you contact your referee beforehand and let them know you have listed them. That way they know that the call is coming and won’t be surprised, plus they can prepare what they are going to say about you.
A well-written CV can be the difference between landing an interview and being passed over. By following this guide, you can create a CV that accurately reflects your skills and experiences and helps you stand out to potential employers. Good luck!
Download our example CV here:
Example CV
Alex Tane
Penrose, Auckland, NZ
Phone: 021 345 6789
Email: alex.tane@gmail.com
Objective
I'm a hard-working individual looking for the chance to prove myself as a general labourer. I have a strong work ethic and I work well in a team environment. I'm eager to bring my experience to a company where I can contribute my skills and grow with the team.
Work History
General Labourer
XYZ Construction, Auckland, NZ
August 2022 - Present
Performed construction and maintenance tasks for commercial and residential buildings
Operated various tools and equipment in a safe and efficient manner
Collaborated with team members to complete projects within deadlines
Labourer
ABC Ltd., Auckland, NZ
March 2022 - June 2022
Assisted with loading and unloading construction materials
Operated heavy machinery under supervision
Assisted with digging and preparing foundation for construction projects
Employee of the Month (April 2022)
Education
National Certificate in Construction Trades - NZQA Level 3
Auckland, NZ
November 2021
NCEA Level 3 & University Entrance
Auckland High School
2016 – 2017
Top of class in wood shop
School captain
Licences & Certificates
Site Safe Certificate
Number: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Expires: 1/12/2024
Skills
Full Driver's License
Strong customer service skills, answering phones and organising deliveries with suppliers at ABC Ltd.
Experienced in operating a range of tools and equipment in a safe and efficient manner
Physically fit and able to lift up to 20kg
Referees
John Smith
Branch Manager
XYZ Construction
021 234 5678
john.smith@xyz.com