Many graduates fail to understand or simply don't know, mainly due to their lack of work experience, what their future employer expects to see in their CV. This article will help demonstrate to graduates applying for Birmingham graduate jobs what needs to be included in their CV.

Firstly, the most important thing to remember at all times when constructing your CV is the employer will only see your CV once. Once they receive it in their hand you need to give them a long lasting impression about yourself that stands you above the crowd. Everything in your CV from the paper you present on, the language you use to the content it contains describes you and that is what your potential employer looks at.

When selecting the paper to send your CV out on, it is best not to choose the cheapest paper you can find or even the most expensive for that matter. Selecting either of these can give your potential employer an impression that may discredit you. Choosing paper that is high quality but no too expensive or dramatic should be selected.

Although there is no set rules about colours, when printing out your CV it is wise to select only blue or black ink. Any other colour may be deemed unprofessional so avoid using these to improve your chances of landing your ideal Birmingham graduate jobs.

When choosing the font type and size for your content it is advisable to keep the size above 11pts but not much more because it may not look professional. Also, the text type used should be either Times New Roman or Arial to make reading easy.

The content is also very important. Each CV should be tailored to suit the graduate jobs you are going for. However, there are some 'generic musts' that need to be included on every CV to help you land the perfect Birmingham graduate jobs.

Initially, you need to write a short paragraph, typically consisting of 2-3 sentences that demonstrate skills, unique qualities and your future plans. This paragraph should be mouth-watering to the potential employer encouraging them to read on.

You then need to demonstrate your past work experience starting with the last job you had and so forth. All the information contained in this section needs to be as related to this job opportunity. This may illustrate to them that your integration into the company could be pretty smooth and you may be able to handle yourself pretty well. At this point also it may be wise to mention any additional training that you have received and any technical and soft skills that you have picked up along the way.

In terms of layout you then need to discuss your qualifications gained over the years. This includes school and university qualifications as well as qualifications you have achieved whilst in a work place or anywhere else for that matter.

In the last part of the CV it is important to mention some personal details about yourself. This can be your sex, marital status, driving licence, date of birth and so forth. This should then be followed by your references. Last but not least it is vital that you check your CV for typographical errors and layout issues.