Unlock Your Next Career Opportunity: Essential CV Dos and Don'ts

Top Tips for a Standout CV

When applying for your next role, it’s essential to make your CV shine. Here are some top tips to help you stand out:

Do...

• Be professional and use language that resonates with the priorities and values of the organisation you are targeting.
• Highlight your networks – whether that’s a grassroots organisation like Museum Detox or a professional development body such as the Museums Association.
• Exemplify your skills (professional or otherwise) as well as your experience. Provide evidence of successes wherever possible.
• Summarise who you are in a short professional statement at the top of your CV.
• Match your experiences with the job criteria by sharing relevant examples.

Don’t...

• Send generic CVs – always tailor your application to a specific role or organisation.
• Share credit; be clear about your role on a project and use “I” rather than “we”.
• Use abbreviations or sector-specific jargon that may confuse the reader.
• Be inconsistent; present information in a logical order—by date or starting with the most relevant experience.
• Hide gaps in your CV or short-term job roles; honesty is crucial.

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