CV Writing Tips: The best Preferred Format To Use in a CV
By Elizabeth Benu
“I am confused on which CV format to use since different HR managers prefer different formats. Which is the best way to go about it?” asks Kate Atieno in an email.
Among the many questions that we receive from our readers is the right format to use in a CV. If you are seriously looking for a format that is easy to scan and easy to highlight important data Kenyan employers want to see, then read on
As Melody Mwendwa, a professional CV writer at Corporate Staffing Services confirms, there are three types of CV formats. The good news is that there is a format for everyone no matter your qualifications and experience.
List of Best CV formats preferred by Kenyan employers
The Chronological CV
This format highlights your work experience in the order of the most current experience listed at the top. It has the following sections: career objectives, professional experience and accomplishments, education and additional skills.
A chronological CV format is good for candidates who are experienced.
However, if you are switching careers or are an entry level candidate, do not use this format. Instead showcase your skills in the professional experience section.
The functional CV
This format on the other hand, lays more focus on your marketable or transferable skills. If you have less work experience i.e. a recent graduate or entry level job seekers or you are changing careers or have gaps in your employment history; this is the ideal CV for you.
It is written in the following order: objective, accomplishments, skills, employment history, education and referees.
A functional CV is useful to people with gaps in their employment history, are re-entering the work force, have frequently changed jobs and /or are looking to change careers.
The combination CV
It is a blend of the two above that focuses on your strongest skills and links those skills to your past job history. This is perfect for the recent graduates, career switchers and professionals with extensive experience.
It is divided in the following sections: objective, profile summary, accomplishments, experience, education and references.
Why the combination CV format is most preferred by Kenyan employers
“Kenyan employers prefer the combined format because it gives all details to your career and any skills that the employer might find impressive that would have otherwise been omitted in the other formats were used,” says Ms. Mwendwa.
The success of your job application boils down to how you package yourself: through your words and general appearance of your CV.
