You need to get the following together before you can start:

Educational records:

You need to get all your educational transcripts, certificates, diplomas, degrees, etc together. It is always wise to store these in a safe place and to work with copies. However, if you need to get a copy you should contact the educational department, organisation or tertiary institution where you studied. Click here for contact details of some of these organisations.

Job descriptions:

A job description is a document that clarifies what needs to be done and what will be expected of the incumbent. Every time you change positions you need to ensure that you have a copy of the job description for the previous position. It can be quite difficult to remember all your duties in previous positions. If you are missing some job descriptions then the Human Resources departments of previous employers should be able to assist.

Performance reviews:

A performance review is basically a document indicating what previous employers thought of you, your performance, behaviour and attitude. We are not going to include this information in the CV but you should have it available in case a prospective employer wishes to see it.

References:

Some companies do not issue previous staff with references. However, there might be some of your previous managers / colleagues that will be willing to give a telephonic reference. For school leavers references are often a teacher or a religious leader. Make sure that these individuals are aware of the fact that you are using them as references and get their consent.

Personal information:

Ensure that you have all your own information together, email address, phone number, etc.

Additional information needed:

You are applying for a specific position, which is part of a specific organisation, which is in turn part of a specific industry or sector. Do your homework: Have a look at their website and get some useful information together that might assist you with your CV.

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