Ask Jo Malone: Land that job by keeping your CV short and avoid spelling errors

Small business agony aunt Jo Malone explains why a CV needs proper time and attention and gets an expert's advice on creating a top notch document.

Dear Jo

I need to update my CV.

What are the basic principles when writing one and how long should it be?

Also, is it appropriate to supply a photograph?

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to discuss CVs further. Remember that your CV is an extension of who you are.

You wouldn’t rush out of the door for a date without checking in the mirror, so don’t rush a CV for a job.

Giving this document the time and attention it requires will pay off in the long term and open the doors for exciting new opportunities.

If you are lucky enough to get an interview, do your homework and make sure you know as much as you can about the role and the business.

A large percentage of my team work with me because they had the initiative to write to me expressing their passion and enthusiasm for the brand, which ultimately paid off.

I asked Katie Ward at recruitment agency Anderson Hoare for tips.

She advises: “CVs should be as short and succinct as possible. The fewer words, the more likely it is that it will be read in its entirety.

“A good way to achieve this is listing past job responsibilities as bullet points rather than within long paragraphs. You may also want to tweak your CV according to the job and company you are applying for.

“It is better not to put a photograph of yourself on a CV. What works for one company or HR manager may not work for another.

“It is far more suitable to have a short statement at the very start of your CV giving a brief description of your personality, strengths and experiences.

“A positive, enthusiastic personal profile will always be better than a photograph. Also be mindful of the information and photographs on your social media pages. The most important rule: avoid the cardinal sin of bad spelling and grammar.