Writing a CV and letter of introduction

CVs and letters of introduction are the main tools for those looking for work.

In the CV, individuals provide basic information such as work experience and education. In the letter of introduction, the reason for applying is explained.

CV

The layout must be clear and the information must be concise. The length of a CV is usually 1 to 2 pages.

The CV must include the following information:

Model for CVs

Here are some of the templates you can use to create a CV (in Icelandic):

Good advice

• It is good to have a high-quality CV that can be adapted according to your needs.

• You do not need to register all your work experience, studies or courses in your CV. It is good to keep in mind to register what is most important for the job you are applying for at any given time.

• If there are many short-term temporary employment for comparable jobs, they can be summarised and reported in one place.

• It is important to read carefully the CV to avoid typing or spelling errors.

• If the work experience and/or education is limited, it is recommended to focus on other skills, for example personal skills and to include them in the letter of introduction.

• A person needs to be able to answer everything that is stated in the CV and it is good to prepare yourself to be able to answer questions about their own career in an employment interview.

• Data security and personal protection should always be taken into consideration when handling documents such as CV and letter of introduction. This is done by sending only locked pdf documents or links to locked documents in the case of an application for employment.

A letter of introduction

The briefing letter is accompanied by a CV. It gives a more detailed picture of the applicant's competence and the reasons for applying for a specific job. The briefing letter is usually half to 1 page.

Model for cover letters

(In Icelandic)

Good advice

• It is good to have a carefully crafted letter of introduction that can be adapted to each job and company.

• It is necessary to highlight the points that recommend the applicant for the job. At the same time, it is necessary to answer how the person meets the requirements set out in the advertisement.

• The focus in the letter should be on the job you are applying for, not what the applicant has done in his life. Be sure not to use “I” too much.

• It is very important to have someone read the CV carefully to avoid typing errors or spelling errors.

• It is good to save the letter with the applicant's name or ID number, preferably as a pdf file.

Job seekers at the Directorate of Labour are offered counselling and courses in the making of a CV and it is possible to put a CV and a letter of introduction on My pages of the Directorate of Labour.