Follow these simple pointers for a CV that grabs attention – for all the right reasons.

The average human resources manager receives 50 applications for every position advertised. Here’s how to avoid the pitfalls and make yours stand out...

Paper
Interviewers favour traditional ivory or white paper. Never use coloured paper.

Font
Use Arial, Verdana or Georgia in 11-point type, which is ideal for readability.

Spacing
Use 1.5-line spacing. Double spacing looks like you’re trying to fill space.

Gaps
People understand up to six months of unemployment. Use the covering letter to explain bigger holes in your history.

Experience
Offer proof of how former employers benefited from your services – mention one or two clients or specific responsibilities that demonstrate your skills.

Matric Marks
Omitting your matric or university marks, especially in the first few years out of school, may raise a question mark. It becomes less important later, but when your actual experience is minimal, academic results offer an indication of ability and diligence.

Extra-Curricular Activities
Involvement in relevant organisations shows leadership; listing unrelated social clubs and interests looks like padding.

Miscellaneous Skills
A third language, advanced technical skills, public speaking... all good. Highlighting basic computer proficiency seems a little pathetic.