CVs for different purposes and examples
Use these examples and tips to see how you can tailor your CV for the job you are applying for. Think about how the different layouts, language and examples of experience given contribute to the overall effectiveness of the CV.
One page or resumé style CV
There are some institutions e.g. Investment banks who may ask you to produce a one page CV. (Always check the application instructions).
- Be concise with your academic experience.
- Focus more on any relevant work experience you may have had (eg internships or work shadowing).
- Include any achievements and key skills (eg languages/ IT) you may have had.
- Personal interests and hobbies are also good to include.
- Competition for positions is fierce in investment banking, so it's important that when a recruiter receives your CV, they get a clear synopsis of who you are and what makes you suitable for their firm.
- If you are using a one page CV this will normally require a longer covering letter.
This style of CV is also suitable for applying for most jobs in the USA.
- University of California, Berkeley Resume and letter writing tools
- Harvard University Resumes, CVs, Cover letters
Creative industries including advertising
There are no firm rules on whether it is advisable to send a "creative" CV for a creative job.
Sending a creative CV can be a gamble. If considering a creative approach, try to gauge the nature of the organisation. If they have a conventional recruitment programme, and are likely to receive hundreds of applications, a creative CV may not be welcome. Read what the organisation says about itself to decide whether they would respond well to something quirky.
- Examples of alternative CVs From Save the student
- Advice on CVs for the screen industries, including television and games From ScreenSkills
The academic CV
Used for applying for an academic job, e.g. a lecturing or research led role normally at a University or research institute.
This CV will be focussed on the job description (as always) but is likely to also include a list of research papers, conferences and funding. This means the CV will usually be more than 2 pages long. To get started use the following resources:
- The academic CV guidelines and example Prospects website will give you ideas for layout and content.
- Vitae: Advice and examples of the same person's CV presented in academic and non-academic formats. Registration for a free account is required.
- CVs for researchers Guidance and advice for research staff on how to develop CVs which evidence their skills for roles in a range of sectors: academic; public; charity and commercial.
- Our CV Pathway Including passing your CV through CareerSet - it will point out that it is longer than 2 pages (due to papers and conferences etc), but if the evidence of skills presented is good then it should still score over 70.
The following example scores highly in CareerSet:
If you have any other questions about writing an academic CV for the purposes above please contact us via Queries in CareerConnect.
NOTE: An academic CV should not be confused with a CV used to apply for a Masters or PhD course which will normally be 2 pages in length. It will focus on the requirements of the course and so may have a section on research interests.
