The JKU Career Center can put you on the path to success faster.

A strong CV and application provides clear information about you, your professional goals, terms, as well as your personal strengths and weaknesses. We want to help you find your dream job or your dream internship. We want to be able to provide support as you start your along the career path and give you all of the expertise, professional advice, and inspiration we can. We know how to help you reach your goals. They say you never stop learning and we can provide information to make you more successful.

# A creative or a serious layout? If you are applying to a law firm as an attorney, choosing a conventional layout makes sense. In contrast, applicants for a position at an advertising agency are expected to submit a creatively designed CV.

# Organization is half the battle. The more clearly a CV is organized and arranged, the better. In German-speaking countries, it is recommended to write a CV in tabular form and include the following:

• Personal information
• Education (studies, school)
• Work experience & internships
• Projects
• Additional qualifications & continual education
• Special knowledge (foreign languages, computer skills)
• Stays abroad, voluntary work, recreational activities, hobbies

# Accuracy is important. Write dates in the left margin in the "month/year" format. As part of a topic block, arrange the information in reverse chronological order, i.e. starting with the most recent.

# What are you particularly good at? Work out your strengths and provide insight into your (professional) experience. Include convincing examples and list the most important activities during your past internships and/or past jobs.

# Dealing correctly with employment gaps. The best ways to deal with employment gaps includes adding volunteer work, indicating you were attending continual education or you were completing a study abroad program.

# There is power in silence. Avoid spelling mistakes and typos. Print your resume as it's been proven that you will find more mistakes on paper. It also helps to read your CV slowly and out loud. Have family and friends proofread your CV.

# Smile in your photo! A friendly-looking application photo says a lot about you. Have your photo professionally taken, use a recent portrait photo and make sure the background is neutral. Choose a modest and classic outfit. JKU Career Center members can take advantage of special offer for job application photos.

# Professional email address. For a serious application it is important that you use a professional email address: FirstName.LastName. It often happens that inappropriate mail addresses are mentioned.

# Job experience. Describe all of the projects you worked on during your studies that have real-world relevance, even if those experiences were part of a university course. List your responsibilities in the project.

# Don't forget to mention any time spent abroad. At the end of your CV, list any stays abroad (e.g. Erasmus, language trips, internships abroad), hobbies, voluntary work and/or involvement in student organizations or initiatives.

1. Don't forget to include your contact information, such as your e-mail address and a phone number.
2. Make the subject line right! Include the job wording and, if applicable, the job reference number.
3. Make your salutation more personal instead of "Dear Sir or Madam."
4. How will you be an asset? Demonstrate your motivation for the job and to work for the company.
5. "Play it again, Sam" - Don't just repeat the information on your CV.
6. Are you a team player? The provide specific, real-world examples of your stated strengths.
7. Phrases such as "Unfortunately, I lack French language skills." are taboo.
8. Avoid subjunctives in a cover letter, such as would and were.
9. In regards to salary, do not state your desired salary unless specifically asked to do so.
10. A scanned, handwritten signature adds a personal touch.