What is a Targeted CV?

A Targeted CV is appropriate when you are ‘targeting’ one specific type of job. It is usually a combination of a Functional CV and a Chronological CV, however, it is usually only one A4 page long. Emphasis should be placed on skills and experiences relating to the specific job you are applying for (the content should be clear and concise but adaptable to every different job application).

What to Include in your Targeted CV

• Personal Profile – Similar to The Chronological CV and Functional CV, start off your Targeted CV with a short personal paragraph. You should include the relevant skills and competencies that relate to the job you are ‘targeting’.
• Key Skills - Next you should have a heading called Key Skills and bullet point the skills and attributes you have that most closely match the job description or vacancy you are applying for.
• Achievements - Include here anything which may be relevant to your application, including educational achievements and voluntary work.
• Career History - This should be in summary form showing dates, name of employment and job description.
• Education and Qualifications - Educational history and professional qualifications should follow under this title. Keep this brief and do not add too much detail but include all relevant educational qualifications and training courses you have attended.

Unlike the Functional CV and Chronological CV you do not need to include a final brief paragraph with ‘Hobbies and Interests’ but you can add any additional information’ under another heading titled ‘Personal Details’ e.g. clean driving licence, marital status.
Finally, on the bottom of a Targeted CV you should write, “references available on request” (you should have the names of two relevant contacts that can be used as referees, usually one work and one personal).