How to write a CV for Sierra Leone employers
One or two pages, clear headings, honest facts. Here is the layout employers expect and the mistakes that get CVs thrown out.
The layout, section by section
| Section | What to put there |
|---|---|
| Header | Full name, town or city, phone and WhatsApp number, email. Use a professional email address, not a nickname. |
| Summary | Three lines: your job title, years of experience, your strongest skills and the kind of role you want. |
| Work experience | Newest first. Employer, town, job title, dates. Three to five bullets per role, each showing a result: “Handled 40 guests a day with no complaints”, not “Responsible for guests”. |
| Education | Highest first: degree or diploma, institution (for example a university or college), year. Then WASSCE or equivalent with the year. |
| Skills and training | Computer skills, languages (English, Krio, others), certificates, short courses. |
| Referees | Two or three people who have supervised you. Name, role, organisation, phone and email. Ask permission first. |
Ten common mistakes
- A CV longer than two pages.
- Spelling and grammar mistakes, especially in the name of the employer you are applying to.
- No phone number, or one that is switched off.
- Listing duties instead of results.
- Gaps in dates with no explanation. A short line is fine: “Career break to care for family”.
- One CV for every job. Tailor the summary to the advert.
- An unprofessional email address.
- Claiming skills you cannot show in an interview.
- Sending photos of certificates in the body of the email. Attach one PDF instead.
- Paying someone to “guarantee” a job.
File and email tips
- Save as a PDF named Firstname-Lastname-CV.pdf.
- Use a short, clear subject: “Application: Accountant, Freetown, Firstname Lastname”.
- Write two or three polite sentences in the email body. Attach the CV and any requested documents.
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Questions
How long should a CV be in Sierra Leone?
One to two pages is standard. Put the most relevant experience first and keep each role to a few clear bullet points with results, not duties.
Should I include a photo?
It is not required. Many employers, especially international ones, prefer CVs without a photo. If you include one, make it a clear, plain head-and-shoulders photo.
What qualifications should I list?
List the highest first: your degree or diploma and institution, then WASSCE results where relevant, then professional certificates and training. Add the year of each.
How many referees do I need?
Two or three, ideally recent supervisors. Ask their permission and give them your CV. Include their name, role, organisation, email and phone.
Can SaloneKart write my CV?
Yes. Our CV maker produces a professional CV from your details. You can also upload your CV and we will match you to roles.
Last reviewed 2026-10-20. General guidance only, not legal or career advice. SaloneKart Jobs never charges candidates to apply.