A Curriculum Vitae (CV) is one of the most important documents required when applying for jobs in Ghana. A well-written CV increases your chances of being shortlisted for interviews, while a poorly written one can lead to instant rejection. This guide explains how to write a professional CV in Ghana, including the correct format, what to include, and common mistakes to avoid.
What Is a CV?
A CV is a document that summarizes your:
- Personal details
- Education
- Work experience
- Skills
- Qualifications
In Ghana, most employers prefer a simple, clear, and professional CV — not a flashy design.
Standard CV Format in Ghana
A good Ghanaian CV should follow this order:
- Personal Details
- Career Objective
- Educational Background
- Work Experience
- Skills
- Referees
👉 Keep your CV 1–2 pages maximum.
How to write a CV in Ghana
Step 1: Write Your Personal Details
Include:
- Full name
- Phone number
- Email address
- Location (town/city only)
❌ Do NOT include:
- Date of birth (unless requested)
- Religion
- Marital status
- Passport photo (unless required)
Step 2 : State your Career Objective (Very Important)
This is a short statement explaining who you are and what job you want.
Example:
A strong career objective helps employers quickly understand your goals, especially when applying for roles such as Ghana Health Service recruitment or other public sector jo
Tip: Keep it 2–3 lines only.
Step 3: Add Your Educational Background
List your education starting from the most recent:
Example:
- HND in Accounting – Accra Technical University (2023)
- WASSCE – Achimota Senior High School (2019)
Include:
- School name
- Certificate obtained
- Year completed
Step 4: Add Your Work Experience
If you have work experience, list it like this:
Example:
- Accounts Clerk – XYZ Company, Accra (2022–2024)
- Prepared financial records
- Assisted with daily accounting tasks
Tip: Use bullet points, not long paragraphs.
If You Have NO Work Experience
Include:
- National Service
- Internship
- Attachment
- Volunteer work
Step 5: List Your Skills Section
List relevant skills only:
Examples:
- Microsoft Word & Excel
- Communication skills
- Customer service
- Teamwork
- Time management
Tip: Avoid lying about skills.
Step 6: Add Referees
Use this format:
Referees
- Available upon request
OR list:
- Name
- Position
- Phone number
Sample CV Format (Ghana)
[FULL NAME]
Phone: 05XXXXXXXX
Email: example@email.com
Location: Accra
Career Objective
Short professional summary here.
Educational Background
List education here.
Work Experience
List experience here.
Skills
• Skill 1
• Skill 2
Referees
Available upon request.
Common CV Mistakes in Ghana (Avoid These)
❌ Spelling and grammar errors
❌ Using long paragraphs
❌ Including irrelevant personal details
❌ Using unprofessional email addresses
❌ Submitting more than 2 pages
Tips to Make Your CV Stand Out in Ghana
- Use simple fonts (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman)
- Font size: 11–12
- Save as PDF
- Tailor your CV to the job
- Always proofread before sending
- Before submitting your CV, always check the application requirements listed on current job vacancies in Ghana to avoid disqualificatio
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on How to write a CV in Ghana
Q1: What is a CV, and is it different from a resume in Ghana?
A: In Ghana, the terms “CV” (Curriculum Vitae) and “resume” are often used interchangeably for a job application document. However, a CV is typically more detailed (2-3 pages) and chronicles your entire career and academic history, while a resume is a shorter (1-page) summary. For most Ghanaian job applications, a comprehensive CV is the standard expectation.
Q2: How long should my Ghanaian CV be?
A: For most professionals, especially graduates and mid-level candidates, 2 pages is the ideal length. Senior executives or academics may have 3-4 pages. Avoid a one-page CV unless you are an entry-level applicant with very limited experience.
Q3: What is the best CV format for the Ghanaian job market?
A: The reverse-chronological format is the most widely accepted and preferred. It lists your most recent experience first, making it easy for recruiters to quickly see your career progression. A clean, professional, and easy-to-read format is key.
Q4: What font and design should I use?
A: Use a professional, easy-to-read font like Calibri, Arial, or Times New Roman in size 11 or 12. Use bold and italics sparingly for headings and job titles. Keep the design simple, clean, and consistent. Avoid colourful templates, graphics, or elaborate designs unless you are in a creative field.
Q5: Is it important to customize my CV for each job?
A: Absolutely critical. Carefully read the job description and mirror the keywords and skills they are looking for. Tailor your Professional Profile and highlight the most relevant experience and achievements for that specific role. A generic CV is easily spotted and often rejected.
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