quarterly career check-up//June 2007

Building a Successful CV

There are many ways to design an effective Curriculum Vitae (CV). Your CV is your first impression and can help you get through the door whether you are looking for a position or locums contract. It is important to present yourself in the most positive manner possible. Follow these simple guidelines to build a successful CV.

• Information to include. Personal information, specialty, education and medical training (include academic honors, internships, etc), licensure and certification, previous practice experience (if any), professional memberships, research and publications (cited in standard MLA format).

• Be Professional. Expressing your personality in an interview is important, but your CV should always appear as professional as possible. Use standard white or linen resume paper and avoid using bright colors or ornate fonts. As a resource to you, Linde Healthcare provides a professional CV template for download .

• Do not include irrelevant information. When applying for a position or locum tenens contract, it is tempting to add excessive information and irrelevant work experience in order to “fatten up” your CV, but employers will quickly spot this. Focus on the most important experiences you have, don’t lie or exaggerate, and tailor each CV you send to the position you are applying for.

• Keep it short. It is generally acceptable for an experienced physician to have a two to three page CV, but if you are just starting out, it is expected that you limit your CV to a single page. Be concise, include references upon request only, and only include information that is relevant to the position you are applying for.

Linde Healthcare can assist you in organizing this information to make your best possible presentation. Whether you are a resident or practicing physician, we can advise and even help you design a Curriculum Vitae that will give you an edge. Contact Linde Healthcare today at 1-866-480-3874.