CVs are a summary of your skills and achievements and they need to be short; preferably a maximum of two pages. You have the freedom to choose which format you think will most appeal to your prospective employer and so will maximise your strengths whilst MINImising your weaknesses.
The standard CV is the Chronological CV; this is the traditional, familiar layout and is the most commonly used format. A second type is the Functional CV which focuses on skills and achievements rather than employment history and qualifications.
Which CV format is best for you, depends, to some extent, on your career development. If you are a recent graduate, the standard CV, which is also called a competency-based CV, is more suitable. For a more mature student, a skills-based CV works well, as it demonstrates life experiences more effectively. However it is useful for any job seeker, who is applying for a career that is not directly related to his or her degree subject or previous experience.
