When it comes to getting your dream job, your CV is your first point of contact with potential employers. Your CV needs to be able to capture the attention of employers in seconds and convince them that you have relevant experience. Here's our tips from recruitment experts on how to write a standout CV.
Research the Industry
Before writing your CV, research the industry you want to get into so you can match your skills and experience to the general industry requirements. Look at job descriptions within the industry you are interested in and person specifications to make sure you highlight your relevant qualifications, skills, and experience.
GRAB ATTENTION!
Did the headline draw you in? Good. Now I’m not suggesting writing your CV in capitals, but the structure of your CV is important. You need to ensure that it's easy for recruiters to read and understand.
The typical structure includes:
· Personal details: Name, address (not the full address), phone number, email address.
· Personal statement: A summary of who you are, what you can offer and what you're looking for.
· Education: List your qualifications in reverse chronological order.
· Work experience: List your most recent work history and work backwards.
· Skills: Highlight any relevant skills that match the job/industry requirements.
· Interests: Include any hobbies or interests that might be relevant.
Tailor your CV
Tailor your CV for each job application by highlighting relevant skills and experience. This shows recruiters that you've taken the time to understand their needs and have tried to match them.
Ready, Set, Action 🎬
Use action words such as "managed," "created," "delivered" or "achieved" to show what you've done rather than passive words like "responsible for." This makes your achievements more tangible.
Keep it Brief!
Your CV should be no longer than two pages. Keep it concise and to the point. Use bullet points to highlight your achievements and responsibilities.
Proofread
This goes without saying but make sure there are no spelling or grammatical errors in your CV. Ask someone else to read it over as well, as they might spot something you missed.
Writing a standout CV requires effort and attention to detail, but it's worth it if you want to land your dream job.
