How to write a CV and cover letter

Contact Information: Include your full name, phone number, email address and home address. Make sure your email address is professional.
Personal Statement: Write a brief personal statement summarising your goals, interests and what you bring to the table.
Education: List all your previous education, starting with the most recent. Include any relevant professional qualifications or academic achievements.
Skills: Identify skills you have that are relevant to the job and discuss how you learned them. These might be ‘hard’ skills, like being able to use a chainsaw or knowledge of a particular computer programme, or ‘soft’ skills, like problem-solving or teamwork.
Work Experience (if applicable): List all your previous jobs, starting with the most recent. Focus on responsibilities, achievements and skills gained. Don’t worry if you have limited experience – so many skills, like great customer service or health and safety knowledge, are transferable to rail. And if you are looking for your first job, think about any experience you have – like volunteer work, school work experience programmes, or being part of a sports team.
Achievements and Awards: Showcase any awards or recognition you've received.
References: If possible, include references or mention that they are available upon request

You can also include hobbies and interests, or non-work-related achievements like running a marathon or volunteering. This section isn’t compulsory but can help an employer get a better idea of who you are.

Relevance is key: Prioritise information that is most relevant to the job you're applying for.
Quality over quantity: Focus on the quality of information rather than trying to fill the page. Avoid including unnecessary details or information that doesn't directly contribute to showcasing your qualifications for the job.
Tailor your CV for each application: Tailor your CV for each application, emphasising experiences and skills that align with the specific job requirements.
Be honest: It’s great to sell yourself but don’t lie or exaggerate on your CV, or there can be serious consequences.
Use readable fonts and formatting: Ensure that your CV is easy to read. Use a clean and professional font and maintain consistent formatting throughout.
Proofread: Double-check your CV for grammatical errors and typos. A polished document reflects your attention to detail.
Test with a trusted source: Have someone you trust review your CV. Their feedback can help you determine if your CV is focused and effectively communicates your experience and qualifications.