There has been a great deal of talk within the media, recruitment and human resources industries about the decline of the usefulness of the CV (also known as résumé) in finding a new job. The most frequently asked question here is if it’s time to ditch the traditional method of applying for a role and try something new?
Although it’s true that emerging technology as well as social media have had, and will continue to have, an impact on the job market, what’s apparent is that CVs still has an important part to play in helping anyone find success in the search for a new role.
We’ve pulled together our top five tips to help you refresh and create your best CV. Use our suggestions below to get an interview for that dream job!
1. Tailor your CV to the role
While it is tempting to craft a standard résumé that you can use to different employers for various roles, this approach isn’t going to get you very far. A significant number of employers now use automated systems to review CVs and, these systems are designed to pick out keywords that relate to that particular role. And if your CV doesn’t contain these keywords then, you are unlikely to be selected for an interview.
Review the job description carefully, pick out the keywords specified and try to replicate them in your CV. Seed them carefully into details of your previous experience and skill sets where appropriate. Be sure to show how you meet these demands or requirements of the role by providing results or achievement.
It’s also useful to do some research into the company that you’re applying to so that you can highlight any relevant experiences or expertise in your résumé.
2. Make it personal
Because your CV reflects who you are, you want to ensure that it communicates what you can offer to a prospective employer. Even if you’re not looking for a new role at this moment in time, it is useful to keep your CV up to date with your latest work experience details and new skills learned. As your career evolves, your CV should mirror these changes too.
3. Be truthful
One of the biggest mistakes that you can make on your CV is lying or exaggerating the truth about your accomplishments or experiences. These lies will undoubtedly come to light during an interview or with a reference check and, therefore you’re better off sticking purely to the facts.
Try to make your CV as factual as possible when listing your achievements. A comprehensive list of all your accomplishments will demonstrate your expertise and how you can add value as a future employee. Generic phrases such as ‘team player’ and ‘enthusiastic worker’ are not needed as these traits will come through from your work experience if you write about your previous roles in an authentic manner.
4. Sell yourself
Your CV is your opportunity to demonstrate to any potential employer that you are the best person for the role. Be assertive of all your achievements and experiences to emphasise the bottom line that there’s no one like you - your experiences and skills are what makes you unique and a valuable asset to the company!
Make sure that you list what you have done previously and highlight aspects such as management skills, successful project delivery and results achieved. But of course, make sure it is factual though!
Remember to describe your strengths and promote yourself consistently in your résumé. If you don’t sell yourself here, who will?
5. Attention to detail
The single most important tip is to make sure that your CV is spell checked and that all your content is also grammatically correct. Spelling mistakes and bad grammar stand out and will present you poorly to prospective employers. There are plenty of available tools online like Grammarly to help with the wordings of your CV. If not, consider enlisting the help of friends and family to review what you have written.
Make sure that you’re consistent in the presentation of information within your CV and remember to follow the same format throughout. For example, if you include achievements alongside the start date on one role then practice consistency by using the same style of approach with all the other roles listed on your CV.
So there you have it. These are our top tips for writing the best modern CV that will catch the attention of any recruiters or hiring managers. Remember, your résumé is your opportunity to present yourself, your personality, your skills and your work experience as best you can.
Be authentic, be positive and leave a good impression!
Here are 6 Key Skills Employer Look For In A CV.
