How to build the best CV

Expert recruiters hiring for some of Britain's most sought-after jobs explain how to write a brilliant CV (and which howlers to avoid).

Fresh-faced graduates aren't the only jobseekers who should be dusting off their CVs. Whether you've recently lost a job, are looking for promotion or a career change, you can improve your CV using the advice here.

Some of the top recruiters in the country have spoken to The Telegraph to disclose what employers really want - and the common CV mishaps to watch out for.

'I'm changing careers'

You've got reams of experience in your field and have worked your way up the pay scale, but want a change.

Instead of seeing your employment history as a turn-off to prospective employers, use your CV as a tool to make it relevant to your future career direction.

Peter Wareham, head of recruitment at PricewaterhouseCoopers, said that the recent economic upturn meant employers were increasingly open to candidates with 'transferable' skills.

"Employers used to be reluctant to employ someone who did not match their exact skill set they needed, but as we see the job market turning, they are becoming more flexible," he said.

Mr Wareham, who receives around 50,000 CVs per single job advertised, advises applicants to list five bullet points at the top of their CV listing skills that fit the job description. "Recruiters need to know straight away that what they're looking for is there.

"Be interpretative with the skills that you have. If you have an example of project management, for example, use it to show you would with fit the new role."

'I've taken time off and want to get back into work'

Whether you've just started a family, been travelling for a year or have returned to university - be prepared to explain why you took time out of the workplace, and what you achieved in the meantime.

Andrew Setchell, a recruitment specialist from employment consultancy firm Robert Walters, said people who take time out are under pressure to prove they can stick to a job. "Put yourself in the seat of the person looking to hire you. The obvious question employers will ask is, are you prepared to stay or do you need another career break?

"If you've no longer got the travelling bug, make it clear that they know the year out has been just that."

Even if you've spent years out of work, your skills are still there and you have probably built up your personal network.

Instead of adding your CV to the stack of people who have applied through a jobs website, try organising an interview through a friend or former colleague.

Most big companies operate employee referral schemes, which means you can quiz your acquaintance about the office culture and potential interview questions before you apply.