using ampersands (&) in a CV or job applications...?

[joko]

ok? not ok?

normally wouldn't use but curious

perhaps not for banks but would it be ok if applying for more 'arty' jobs?

cheers

[MarkRae]

Definitely not, unless referring to a former employer whose name is written with one.

[Buenchico]

. . . or possibly where two words are normally linked together anyway. For example: "I am currently the Heath & Safety representative in my workplace"

[MarkRae]

I wouldn't even do it in that instance, Chris - the HSE certainly don't... http://www.hse.gov.uk/

[joko]

i have a lot of words like that chris. i am freelance so my cv is getting long...was thinking of ways to save a bit here an there.

do you think peopl would frown on it though?
i will probably leave it as is

cheers

[sherrardk]

Isn't it a bit too text-speak?

[joko]

i wouldnt have thougt to use it in a block of text/speech like in the cover letter, just in lists and job titles, such as sets & props...costume & wardrobe etc

[joko]

not really sherrard...it is on a keyboard always has been...it is a legitimate character...

[MarkRae]

You'd save two characters by using an ampersand - that's a very small saving...

[sherrardk]

Bit of a tricky one. You will know how trendy your industry is (I was in education so it would have been a big no no).

[THECORBYLOON]

Mark, the HSE uses both, for example "The Health & Safety Executive is governed by the Executive board and Senior Management Team. Find out more."

[MarkRae]

I think the OP has made her mind up anyway...:-)

[joko]

true mark but when there are around 40 ands in the doc it adds up and also can take it onto a new line for one word...

ah well i wont risk it then anyway...i suppect many in my industry would not notice or care...but a few might - and thats a few too many

[Maydup]

Is it possible to reduce your CV in other ways joko? Maybe you are trying to list too much?

Are you writing spec letters or is it for a particular job. It might be worth adapting it for different occasions rather than trying to squeeze everything in.

Either way, good luck in finding something

[joko]

hi maidup thanks, i have tried but because i am a freelance its hard to know what to cut - i have already divided it up into 3 CVs! because its about 20 years worth of 2-week to 3 month jobs so it mounts up
they are largely just lists too... just - company, type of production, title and my job role.

its kind of expected in this industry to have a longer than the standard '2 page limit' CV...but my main one is pushing 4 now...

will just have to be ruthless

the letter is no problem and wouldnt want to try to shrink that