Pole position

Your CV: Simple and professional
The experts say it is OK to use the same CV for different job applications. Follow a simple structure, starting with your current job, moving back in time through previous jobs to your education. Keep sentences short and use bullet-pointed lists where appropriate. Focus on results, not just on job titles. Don't forget to list your duties, responsibilities and achievements.

Rose recommends keeping a CV down to two or three pages. Again, don't go for anything gimmicky or colourful unless it's definitely right for your industry. 'We recruit middle and senior management across all industry sectors,' she says. 'If I'm trying to recruit a finance director on 80K, I don't want a quirky CV.'

But do include hobbies or interests. 'This is the part where you can be more personal,' Lisa Nickels explains. 'Be honest and specific. Nothing too controversial or political, but avoid the standard "reading and socialising". Make it individual (e.g. rock climbing, a specific type of film, travel to a particular country) and brief - the idea is to gain employers' interest and provide a talking point for interviews.'

Postbox time: Make sure it's perfect
Before you post that job application, a few more tips on perfect presentation from the experts:

• Buy good quality paper in white or cream (at least 100gsm thick).
• Use an A4-sized envelope. That way, your application is nice and neat, not folded up.
• Avoid fancy fonts - use Helvetica, Arial or Times New Roman instead. Text size should be around 12pt.
• Use a spellchecker. Ideally get a friend to read through your letter and CV too.
• Only apply by email if invited to in the job advert. Watch out for spelling mistakes and send your CV as a file attachment so that it is well presented.

• Over the page: ace your interview