Having a strong CV is vital when looking to move jobs. It's often the first time an employer 'meets' you, and gives the employer an insight into who you are, and whether your experience is suitable for a role. You have just 7 seconds to make a good impression face-to-face, so if you've already impressed the interviewer with your CV, you're off to a great start!
Our team give their top 10 tips for building the best CV below:
Tailor for the Role: Customise your resume for each job application. Highlight skills and experiences that align with the specific job requirements.
Clear Formatting: Use a clean and professional layout. Ensure your resume is easy to read with consistent formatting, clear headings, and bullet points.
Powerful Summary: Start with a compelling summary that showcases your unique value proposition. Grab attention by succinctly stating what sets you apart.
Quantify Achievements: Use numbers to quantify your accomplishments. Whether it's sales figures, project success, or percentages, concrete numbers make an impact.
Keywords Matter: Incorporate industry-specific keywords relevant to the job. Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes based on keywords.
Showcase Skills: Create a dedicated section for your key skills. Include both technical and soft skills that are relevant to the position.
Reverse Chronological Order: List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. This format is widely accepted and easy to follow.
Education Highlights: Summarise your educational background, emphasising relevant degrees, certifications, and honors. If you're a recent graduate, highlight additional academic achievements such as sporting awards.
Professional Email: Ensure your contact information is professional. Use a simple, easy-to-read email address and include a professional LinkedIn profile if applicable.
Proofread, Proofread, Proofread: Typos and errors can sabotage your efforts. Proofread your resume multiple times or ask a friend to review it for you.
Bonus Tip: Be Honest! Authenticity is key. Represent your experiences truthfully, and be prepared to discuss any aspect of your resume in an interview.
Crafting a standout resume is about presenting a compelling snapshot of your professional journey. It's easy to 'spam' hiring managers with a 'standard' CV and covering letter. It might be quicker, but it's not a way to get you noticed. Tailor both for impact, and let your unique story shine through! When applying to our clients, our team will help you standout - take a look at our open roles and apply here!
