Prepare a Well-Thought-Out CV

Keep Your CV Current

Throughout a scientist's career, professional development requires a well-written resume or curriculum vitae (CV).  Keep your CV up-to-date.  You never know when you will need it and it takes time to write a good CV.

Your First Impression is on Paper
A CV is often the first written document that an employer will see from a job applicant.  You can imagine the impression a sloppy CV makes.  It is critical to check formatting, grammar, punctuation, and especially spelling, so that your CV isn't put aside. 
   CV Template

A Great CV is Worth Your Time
Your CV should be unique.  There is no one-size-fits-all CV.  You will need to be proactive in discovering best type of CV for you.

• What CV format best highlights your qualifications?
• What CV format seems best suited to the jobs that appeal to you?

Don't Always Use the Same CV
When considering specific jobs, take the time to modify your CV to highlight your qualifications that match that job's  requirements. 

The Physicist's Elevator Speech

Giving a Quick Summary
While riding an elevator, if someone asked you about your work, what would you say?  Every scientist should have a 30-second description of his or her work mentally composed and ready to deliver.  

“What do you do?”
Physicists need several versions of the Elevator Speech because not everyone understands physics.  Fit your answer to your audience.  Assess the expertise of the person asking, "What do you do?"  Give a concise answer that person will understand. 

Get Ready to Be Ready

• Prepare a one-sentence description of your work.
• Prepare a 30-second description of your work.
• Prepare a short and simple explanation for non-experts.
• Practice your Elevator Speeches out loud.

Good CV Reading

• Landing Your First Job: A Guide for Physics Students by John S. Rigden, ISBN: 0-7354-0080-6