Ask the expert: What to put on your CV

Q. I am studying a Masters of Engineering in Biotechnology and am a graduate chemical engineer. I have never worked except for part-time teaching assistance and lab demonstrations at university. My thesis is still due and I am looking forward to applying for a job in order to take care of my student loan. I have two months to finish my masters, so what would you suggest to me as a beginner. How should I structure my curriculum vitae?

A. I think you need to think about what kind of job you are likely to be applying for, and in what type of organisation. You can start your CV with a 'career objective' section that gives an overview of the type of position that you are looking for, and the types of skills that you have, and want to use.

For example, you might want to state that you are looking to join a biotechnology research team, in a supporting role that uses your skills in problem solving, project management and your specific technical skills areas. This tells the employer - right up front - what your skills are and how they might be used.

In your education section, just give a summary of your areas of expertise. A guide to CV writing can be found at www.ldc.govt.nz/?/information/publications (the Leadership Development Centre - see link below).

Don't forget all the other things that you do that demonstrate innovation, problem-solving, teamwork and communication skills - all the things that are actually part of your personal and professional duties.

Try to pick referees who have closely observed you in job-relevant activities (and you can even include a notation next to your reference list that indicates their relationship and what they would be able to comment on, for example: 'Ms X was the team leader for my role as a teaching assistant, and can comment on my public speaking and my skills in working in a diverse team'.

And don't be afraid to include unusual or casual jobs that show some initiative on your part, and may make your CV stand out from the rest. A recent example of a memorable graduate CV included a prior job as a 'grouse beater' in Scotland (getting the birds to fly for hunters), which the applicant noted taught him to duck when shots were fired.