(from now on CV )

Usually , the first impression that employers get from you is your CV. CV contributes to the final decision on your employment, so that piece of paper has important role in the whole story.

You simply cannot afford to make any mistakes while writing it, so please follow some rules that will be explained here.

Presentation of your work history is a key thing according to which employer estimates you as a person suitable to work on a cruise ship. This means that bad grammar, poor writing or bad quality copies are simply unacceptable.

Your resume should have your name and address and at least one contact number where you can be reached during working hours. A mobile number is also useful. Put these details at the beginning - on a separate sheet if you like. Include everything that might help us to contact you quickly.

List your skills and experience in summary form from early on. It is a good idea to summarize your experience and skills under headings.

There is no real formula for resume writing. You need to include description of your accomplishments for each employer, setting them out in easy-to-read statements.
Include as many facts and figures as necessary to substantiate achievements. It is important that everything is factual. Take credit for your role in a project if others were involved.

More experienced individuals should not write long statements about their character or the kind of company they worked for. Just list your achievements and what they meant to your past employer. That will be sufficient information for the resume reader.

Remember that a resume is used to eliminate candidates. Even before talking with you, if the employer doesn't like something in your resume or finds an obvious omission , you will be eliminated from the interviewing process. Whatever you exclude is as important as whatever you include.

Consider using some specialized software like Resume Maker to create CV in electronic format. Some employers prefer this way so they can store it in searchable database. Also there is a plenty resources on internet to help you writing CV.

Also write a short cover letter where you will introduce yourself and say what position you are applying for.

CV Do's and Don'ts:

DO:

- Carefully prepare and review all details.

- Your name and contact information should be centered heading.

- Focus on your strongest points and biggest professional achievements

- Include as many relevant abilities as possible

- If possible , include previous references and contact numbers

- Have it professionally typed and checked for spelling and grammar. Use check spelling software if you have to, like I do while writing this text :)

- Print it on good-quality laser printer

DON'TS:

- Write more than one page of text

- Lie

- Send poor copies, badly written CV's, written on colored papers, fancy fonts

- Send it without cover letter

Try to establish what companies want (such as management ability and the ability to work closely with others) and try to offer them what they are looking for, tailoring your CV to suit a particular job. Common points that employers are looking for are commitment, enthusiasm, quality employment record, team work and ability to work on ones own initiative.

In today's competitive cruise ship job market it is quite usual to be asked to supply copies of references, a passport size and maybe a full body photograph of yourself wearing a smart suit. Try to avoid wasting time by obtaining these in advance and sending them with your CV. Use a paper clip to attach your photographs onto your cover letter or CV and write your name, address and the position you are applying for at the back. Also send copies of your certificates, achievements, awards, etc. to cruise lines, employment agencies or concessionaires along with your application.
Always accompany your application with a cover letter in which you state what position you are applying for and why and keep it short and sweet. Naturally, even the best references can look shabby if they are not presented professionally. It may cost a little more money, but invest in a smart folder in which you'll send your details. Employers and employment agencies are always impressed with professionalism.