GRB: Don't bend the truth to improve CV

12:12 22nd June 2009

An expert has given advice on how to make your CV look great, without stretching the truth.

Chris Cater, deputy founder of the Graduate Recruitment Bureau said: "Tailor your CV to meet that company's and that specific role's requirements."

His comments follow news from the Department for Work and Pensions that more than a quarter of Brits have exaggerated or lied on their CV.

Getting qualifications in computer courses could help your CV look more appealing.

"Whatever you are trying to get across in your CV has to be across on the first paragraph," Mr Cater adds.

"So anything that is relevant to the job, in terms of work experience, educational qualifications...should be there, right at the front of the CV."

A strong covering letter is also important in getting the attention of the potential employer.

The study from the government also found that women tend to be more honest on their CVs than men, with 22 per cent admitting they may lie or exaggerate compared to 30 per cent of men.

Young people under the age of 55 are also twice as likely to bend the truth.