Have you updated your CV?

Make sure you keep your CV current, fresh and uncluttered. Your CV is the first impression your future employer gets of you. A tired, outdated and unrelevant CV is not going to get a second look.

If you’ve been out of full time employment for a while, don’t hesitate to add what you’ve been doing in the meantime, even it is is a couple of weekends here and there apple picking. It will show your future employer you’re willing to give anything a go and that you are not lazy.

Di Barclay, the Human Resources Manager for the Academy Group says "Many candidates make the mistake of cramming far too much information into their CV. Not many employers are particularly interested in the part you played in the school musical or any awards certificates that are out-dated. The best advice I can give is to Keep It Simple - stick to the relevant information, highlight your key skills and personal attributes and keep the 'fluff' to a minimum - that should do the trick!"

Remember, if you have plenty of years experience in the workforce, your CV does not have to be padded out with what your after school job was 14 years ago. There is also no need to include the certificate you received for baking the best scone in your 1981 Home Economics class. Keep everything relevant to the job you are applying for and keep the information current.