Migrant CV Preparation
Are you a migrant looking for help with CV preparation in New Zealand? If so, you have come to the right place! Preparing a CV is no easy task, and it can take time to get it just right. Here we provide some useful guidance on how to create an outstanding CV that will help you stand out from the crowd. With the right advice and our tips, your CV will be sure to make a great impression!
Introduce your best self – who you are, what you do, and where you are. We have a few quick tips below however if you would like us to write and template your CV for you then please enquire below.
Migrant CV Tips
Keep it short
Your CV may include information about every job or course you’ve ever done but, in New Zealand, CVs are usually only two to three pages long. Employers mainly want to know if you can do the job.
Put yourself in the employer’s place
When an employer scans your CV, will they think “This CV looks interesting”?
When an employer reads your CV fully, will they think “This person has skills we need”?
When an employer is shortlisting CVs will they think “This person is worth meeting”?
Make sure your CV is up to date
If you want an employer to contact you, you need to keep your CV up to date with your latest address and telephone number.
Give examples of your skills
When writing about your skills, don’t just list them – make sure that you give examples of how you’ve used each skill.
Identify what you did, the setting in which the activity was carried out, and what happened as a result.
For example:
Customer service skills – managed a busy bookstore and twice achieved a 95% grading during the annual mystery shopper survey.
Include referee contact details
Most New Zealand employers will ask for two referees who they can contact to ask about your work. Make sure that the contact details for your referees are current, and check this by contacting them yourself. Tell them about your plans and ask them to read your CV – you may get some good advice from them.
Write a cover letter
When you send your CV to an employer, make sure you include a cover letter.
Your cover letter should: 1. Explain why you want the job2. Explain what you can offer the employer3. Highlight skills, qualifications and experience that you have that match the job.