CV & Job Application Guide

1. What is a CV?

A curriculum vitae (CV) summarises your education, skills, experience and achievements. Your CV should be accurate, easy to read and relevant to the job you are applying for.

Recommended CV sections

1. Contact details: Full name, phone number, professional email address and town or location.
2. Professional profile: A short introduction explaining your strengths and career objective.
3. Education: Institutions attended, qualifications and dates where appropriate.
4. Work experience: Employers, positions, dates and relevant responsibilities or achievements.
5. Skills: Practical skills relevant to the advertised position.
6. Certifications: Relevant training or professional certificates.
7. Referees: Include them when requested or appropriate, after getting their permission.

2. How to write a strong CV

• Tailor your CV to the specific job description.
• Use clear headings and consistent formatting.
• Describe achievements and responsibilities using concise statements.
• Check spelling, grammar, dates and contact details.
• Use a professional email address.
• Save the final version as PDF unless the employer requests another format.
• Use a sensible filename, such as Evans_Muchui_CV.pdf.

A CV of one or two pages is often suitable for an entry-level applicant, but relevant experience and employer instructions should determine the final length.

3. Job application letter example

Adapt this example to the specific job. Replace the bracketed details before sending.

4. How to apply for a job by email

1. Read the job advertisement carefully and confirm the application deadline.
2. Prepare your CV and application letter in the requested format.
3. Open your email account and select Compose.
4. Enter the employer's email address exactly as advertised.
5. Write a clear subject line.
6. Write a brief, polite message in the email body.
7. Attach the correct documents and open them once to check that they are readable.
8. Confirm the recipient and attachments, then send.

Example email subject

Example email message

5. Applying for jobs online in Kenya

Check the employer's official website and recognised job platforms for current vacancies. Examples include:

• BrighterMonday Kenya
• MyGov Kenya for government notices and advertisements
• The relevant employer's official careers page

For public service vacancies, confirm application instructions and deadlines on the official recruiting body's website.

6. Common mistakes to avoid

• Sending the same generic CV to every employer without tailoring it.
• Forgetting to attach the CV or application letter.
• Using the wrong email address or subject line.
• Submitting documents with spelling mistakes or inconsistent information.
• Claiming qualifications or experience you do not have.
• Paying an unknown person who promises a guaranteed job.
• Sharing sensitive identity or banking details with unverified recruiters.

Need help preparing your documents?

ETG TV offers guidance on CV preparation, application letters and digital document skills. Provide accurate information about your background so your documents represent you honestly.