I’ve just finished reviewing 20 CVs for a project I am currently working on and, since it is all fresh in my mind, now is a good time to share my thoughts on the importance of creating a great CV. Whether you are an entry–level employee or an experienced professional seeking a promotion the rules are the same, but I see so many CVs that fall short in key areas that could make or break your progression opportunities. Your CV serves as your first impression on potential employers and as we all know you only have one opportunity to create a first impression. Therefore, your CV should be viewed as your personal marketing tool that highlights your skills, experiences, and qualifications. Here are my suggestions for crafting a job-winning CV:
First Impressions Matter and a well-designed, organized and easy-to-read CV immediately presents you as a serious and professional candidate, creating a positive impression before any face-to-face interaction.
Showcase Your Achievements, Remember a good CV is not just a chronological list of your job history; it should highlight your competencies and accomplishments. Include tangible fact-based information, for example, completing specific projects, exceeding targets, or acquiring valuable skills. The tangible detail that you provide will validate your capabilities and provide evidence to the employer of your value to a new organisation.
Tailor Your CV for Opportunities, Each job opportunity is unique, and a one-size-fits-all CV simply doesn’t work. Making the effort to craft a tailored CV for each application allows you to emphasise the skills and experiences that align with the specific role. Any form of customisation will be noted by hiring professionals and will be seen as your genuine interest in the position and your commitment to meeting its requirements.
Highlight Your Skills and Reference Them with the Job Description, your CV should distinguish between hard skills and soft skills to encompass technical expertise and soft skills like communication, teamwork, and adaptability. Both hard and soft skills are valued in every workplace with a renewed emphasis on interpersonal skills, empathy, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking. If you are unable to cross reference your skills with the role on offer this may not be the job for you so there is an added value in doing this exercise.
·Differentiate Yourself as a Standout Candidate, it can be challenging these days to stand out from the crowd when it comes to recruitment and hiring. Recruiters or hiring managers typically receive large volumes of applications for a single position. Putting that extra effort into your CV will help you to stand out from the crowd by amplifying your unique combination of experience and abilities. This should include a strong professional statement at the top of your CV and make sure to give thoughtful considerations to describing your hobbies; this can be very beneficial e.g. a triathlete would be viewed as someone who is determined, goal-focused, results-driven and resilient.
Trust And Credibility Are Valuable Assets, A well-thought-out CV not only demonstrates your professional history and educational background it is also sets the foundation for trust-building and credibility. If your CV is authentic, It offers the employer a transparent view of your career journey and helps them to easily verify the information you provide.
The effort you put into creating your CV demonstrates your commitment and dedication to enhancing your career. Use your CV to show employers that you take your professional image seriously and are willing to invest time and energy in presenting yourself in the best possible light.
Remember, your CV is your gateway to success – make it count!
Janet Tumulty janet@newlinkstraining.com
23.08.23