When applying for a job, your CV is the most important tool available to you. It is essential to ensure you have included all the relevant documents to gain the best chance of being hired. Knowing what documents to attach to your CV can be difficult, so to help you out, here is a brief guide on the subject.
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Cover Letter | A tailored, written document that introduces you and your CV to an employer. |
| References | A list of referees who can vouch for your skills and abilities. |
| Certificates | Awards, qualifications, certifications and any other documents that show your capabilities. |
| CV | A document outlining your skills and experience. |
| Portfolio | A collection of previous work, such as writing samples, drawings or photographs. |
| Letter of Recommendation | A letter from a previous employer or professor, outlining your abilities. |
Contents:
Should I Attach a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is one of the most important documents to attach to your CV. It is a chance to show off your personality and convince the employer that you are the right candidate for the job. Your cover letter should explain why you are applying for the job and provide a summary of your key skills and experiences. You should also explain why you want to join their company and how you can benefit them. A well-written cover letter can make a big difference in how your CV is received.
What References Should I Include?
When you are attaching references to your CV, it is important to ensure you have included at least two people who can vouch for your skills and abilities. These should be people who know you well, such as a previous employer, professor or friend. You should provide their name and contact details, such as an email address or phone number. You should also include a brief description of how you know the person and how long you have known them for.
Do I Need to Attach Certificates?
If you have any awards, qualifications or certifications that demonstrate your capabilities, then you should attach them to your CV. This can be anything from a university degree to a certificate of participation in an extracurricular activity. Anything that you think will impress potential employers should be included in your CV. You should make sure the documents are up-to-date, relevant and easily accessible.
Should I Attach a Portfolio?
If you have any previous work that you think could be beneficial to your application, such as writing samples, drawings or photographs, then you should attach a portfolio to your CV. This is a great way to demonstrate your skills and capabilities to a potential employer. Make sure to include only your best work and ensure that it is relevant to the job you are applying for.
Do I Need a Letter of Recommendation?
A letter of recommendation is a great way to demonstrate your abilities and show potential employers that you are a trustworthy and reliable candidate. It is usually written by a previous employer or professor and should outline your qualities and capabilities. It is important to ensure that the letter is from a reputable source and that the contents are accurate.
Conclusion
When attaching documents to your CV, it is important to ensure that you are providing the right documents for the job. You should include a cover letter, references, certificates, a CV, portfolio and a letter of recommendation. All of these documents will help to demonstrate your capabilities and give potential employers an insight into your skills and experiences. By including all of these documents, you will be giving yourself the best chance of being hired.