CV Secrets: How to Make Yours Shine
Author: Emily John
Your CV is a crucial part of your job search. It’s the first impression an employer will have of you, so making it count is essential.
Designed to highlight your suitability for the position, your CV should feature your professional experience and educational background.
With employers receiving hundreds of applications for each role, it’s vital that your CV stands out for all the right reasons.
This article will guide you in crafting your CV, provide resources for assistance, and offer helpful hints and tips.
How long should my CV be?
Typically, your CV should not exceed two sides of A4 paper. Your CV should be a snapshot of your greatest achievements, both professionally and academically.
When creating your CV, be concise by focusing on the key aspects of your education and experience. Include only relevant details and avoid repeating information found in your cover letter. If you find it challenging to edit, ask yourself whether each piece of information enhances your candidacy. If it doesn’t, remove it.
However, there is no “one size fits all”. A recent graduate, a school leaver or a student will typically have minimal experience and will not be able to fill two sheets of A4 paper. Don’t be disheartened. Consider the following factors to be added into your CV:
- What achievements are you proud of? Were you a peer mentor, or on school council?
- Are you a member of any societies?
- Are you involved in any sports?
- Do you have any hobbies, e.g. can you play a musical instrument, are you involved in a drama club?
How should I format my CV?
Avoid using words like “CV” or “Cover Letter”. Instead, use your name as the title. This should always be followed with your up-to-date contact number, email address and LinkedIn details. Do not add your date of birth, personal address or photographs.
List all your achievements in reverse chronological order. This way, the recruiter will see your most recent achievements first. If you have lots of experience, try and narrow it down to your top three relevant placements.
Keep it concise. There is no harm in using bullet points! This makes the CV easier to read, and you’ll be able to fit more information in.
How do I make my CV stand out?
Try to use active verbs whenever possible. By incorporating words like “created,” “analysed,” and “devised” you will portray yourself as someone who takes initiative.
Steer clear of clichéd phrases such as “team player,” “hardworking,” and “multitasker”. Instead, provide concrete examples that showcase these skills.
Customise your CV. Visit the company’s website and social media to gather insights. Check for recent mentions in local news and refer to the job advertisement to ensure your CV is aligned with the role and employer.
Ensure your email address is professional. If your current address is unsuitable, create a new one for professional correspondence.
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