A well-structured CV is one of the most important tools for securing a job in Nigeria’s competitive market. Recruiters often spend less than 10 seconds scanning a CV, so clarity, relevance, and professionalism are essential.

This guide provides a practical, step-by-step approach to creating a CV that stands out and increases your chances of getting shortlisted.

1. Start with Your Personal Information

What to Include:

• Full Name
• Phone Number
• Professional Email Address
• Location (City/State)
• LinkedIn Profile (optional but recommended)

Best Practice:

Use a professional email (e.g., firstname.lastname@gmail.com)

2. Write a Strong Professional Summary

Purpose:

This is a brief introduction that highlights your experience and value.

Example:

Results-driven graduate with strong analytical skills and experience in customer service. Seeking an entry-level role to contribute to organizational growth.

Tips:

• Keep it between 2–4 sentences
• Tailor it to each job application

3. Highlight Your Key Skills

Include:

• Technical skills (e.g., Excel, Python, Digital Marketing)
• Soft skills (e.g., Communication, Teamwork)

Example:

• Data Analysis (Excel, Power BI)
• Customer Relationship Management
• Problem-Solving

Tip:

Match your skills with the job description

4. Detail Your Work Experience

Format:

Job Title
Company Name – Location
Start Date – End Date

Example:

Customer Service Representative
XYZ Company – Abuja
Jan 2023 – Dec 2024

• Handled customer inquiries and complaints
• Improved customer satisfaction by 20%
• Managed daily reports and documentation

Tips:

• Use bullet points
• Focus on achievements, not just duties
• Use action words (e.g., managed, developed, improved)

5. Add Your Educational Background

Format:

Degree – Institution Name
Year of Graduation

Example:

B.Sc. Business Administration – University of Lagos (2022)

Tip:

• Include relevant certifications if available

6. Include Certifications and Training

Examples:

• Digital Marketing Certification
• Project Management (PMP or PRINCE2)
• ICAN / ACCA (for accounting roles)

Why it matters:

Certifications increase credibility and employability

7. Add Relevant Projects (If No Experience)

For fresh graduates or entry-level candidates:

Example:

Project: Social Media Campaign

• Managed a campaign that increased engagement by 40%

Tip:

Projects show practical skills, even without formal employment

8. Keep Your CV Clean and Professional

Formatting Rules:

• Use simple fonts (Arial, Calibri)
• Font size: 10–12
• Maximum: 1–2 pages
• Use clear headings

Avoid:

• Too many colors
• Unnecessary graphics
• Spelling errors

9. Tailor Your CV for Each Job

Important:

Do not send the same CV to every employer.

What to Adjust:

• Skills
• Summary
• Keywords

Tip:

Use keywords from the job listing to pass ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems)

10. Proofread Before Sending

Check for:

• Spelling and grammar errors
• Incorrect dates
• Formatting issues

Tip:

Ask someone else to review your CV before submission

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using an unprofessional email
• Including irrelevant information
• Writing long paragraphs instead of bullet points
• Lying or exaggerating experience

Final Advice

A winning CV is:

• Clear
• Relevant
• Results-focused

Take time to refine your CV, update it regularly, and align it with the job you are applying for.

Ready to apply?
Explore the latest job opportunities on Fundpeeps and put your new CV to work.