Even if you are not asked to provide one, it is good practice to do so, because it shows you are prepared. Having said that, if you are asked to complete an application form, do not send your CV as well.

Innovation Recruitment sets out the following guidelines to sell yourself for a job:

There is no set format for a CV. Layout your CV to emphasise your best achievements, for example good grades or lengthy work experience.

Always word process or type your CV.

Keep a copy on disk and tailored to suit each job for which you apply.

Update your CV regularly as your qualifications, experience and achievements grow.

In a recent survey, employers identified the following most desirable skills and qualities:

1. IT skills (especially accuracy)
2. Flexibility
3. Desire to improve own learning and performance
4. Motivation
5. Accurate communication skills
6. Courtesy
7. Good presentation
8. Ability to work as a team member
9. Reliability
10. Numeric skills (without a calculator)
11. Problem solving skills
12. Enthusiasm

Use words to sell yourself. When writing your CV, covering letter or application form use some of the words below to describe yourself. These words describe skills and qualities that employers value: adaptable, self-reliant, hardworking, eager to improve, conscientious, responsible, willing, sociable, persevering, caring, reliable, determined, flexible, precise, assertive, computer literate, considerable, steady, energetic, dependable, confident, tactful, open-minded, cooperative, resourceful, calm, team player, tasks initiative, ambitious, organised, determined, versatile, efficient, helpful, accurate, meets deadlines.

Remember that employers/course providers want to read something about you as a person. The right qualification aren't enough on their own. You need to demonstrate that you have the right character to fit in with the company and do the job well.

Use experience. Make maximum use of any relevant experience and/ or interests. Compare these three statements, which could appear in an application form or covering letter:

1. During my work experience, I spent two weeks in a leisure centre which I found interesting.

2. During my work experience two months ago, I spent two weeks in a community leisure centre at Weydale. I enjoyed this because it gave me a good idea of this type of work and the opportunities in it.

3. During my work experience two months ago, which I arranged myself, I spent two weeks in a leisure centre at Weydale. I found it very enjoyable and interesting dealing with the public. The supervisor gave me the opportunity to experience a number of different aspects of the work and to find out for myself various career opportunities. I would certainly like to pursue this type of career, particularly because of the variety it provided and the chance for me to continually improve myself.

The last statement is the best as it shows the full picture of how you got the work experience, what you enjoyed about it and what you learned from it.

For more information on what Innovation Recruitment Limited can do for you, please call 020 8343 9933.