Simple Purple CV/Résumé template (free download)

Choose our simple purple CV template/Résumé template if you’d like a classic looking template that’s ideal for a whole range of job titles. This template is so easy to adapt, you can use it whether you’re applying to be a kindergarten teacher or a bank manager! Just alter the headings and paste in new sections as you need them.

Of course, the key to a good CV or Résumé is the content – so let’s look at a few tips to ensure your CV or Résumé makes it to the top of your employer’s pile:

• DON’T make fluffy sweeping statements such as ‘I work well on my own’ or ‘I am a hard worker’. Give evidence in the CV or Résumé that demonstrates these skills.
• DO use action words. For example:
  • I achieved…
  • I was awarded…
  • I delivered…
  • I developed…
  • I enhanced…
  • I established…
  • I grew…
  • I increased…
  • I initiated…
  • I inspired…
  • I instigated…
  • I introduced…
  • I motivated…
  • I overhauled…
  • I rejuvenated…
  • I transformed…
• When you use an action word, make sure you provide a specific example – for example, don’t say ‘I overhauled the Company’. Do say ‘I overhauled the Company’s delivery system, saving on average £20,000 per year’.
• DO use words that your employer might search for online such as the names of specific skills, qualifications or examples of experience that someone doing the role they are advertising might need. For example:
  • Use of particular software or systems e.g. Microsoft Word
  • Particular qualifications e.g MBA
  • For developers, use of particular languages e.g. PHP
  • Sectors that you have worked in, e.g. B2B, B2C, Finance, Legal
  • Awards and memberships, e.g. CFILEx
• Remember that in many cases you’ll also have the covering letter to support your application. This is a good opportunity to make your case and explain any discrepancies on your CV such as gaps in employment or the reason why you’ve moved around a lot.
• Ask a few friends or relatives to review your finished CV or Résumé template before you send it off to prospective employers. A fresh pair of eyes can be helpful not only for spotting mistakes but for identifying any questions that arise from your CV which you might not have thought of.

We do hope you enjoy using our Simple Purple  CV or Résumé template and as always, we’d love to hear your feedback.