CV: First Impressions
When applying for new jobs you have to compete with other CVs, giving you a matter of seconds to impress. So, how can you ensure your application will leave a positive impact with such little time? Here are some helpful tips to help your CV stand out from the others:
Keep It Short
CVs are never one-size-fits all.
Most recruiters find that a CV of which is two pages long is spot on length wise. However, it all depends on how much information you have to share. Anything more than 3 pages may be seen as too lengthy and may be ignored.
The key to keeping it short but precise is by ‘cutting off the fat’. Ask yourself the question, ‘is this sentence relevant to the role that I’m applying for?’. If you find yourself saying no, then it shouldn’t make the final cut.
When it comes to your qualifications, be specific. Add start and end dates, qualification types and grades. You don’t need to add all of your qualifications either. Depending on the role you’re applying for at least two or three will usually suffice.
Job Tailoring
No matter what job you’re applying for, always tailor your CV to include relevant examples showing us (the recruiter) that you’re right for the role. Use your CV to match up with the job spec and show the recruiter that you’re a good match. If you find that your experience doesn’t exactly count up with the job description, don’t panic. Take some time to think about transferrable skills and show that you’re willing, able and equipped to handle the duties at hand.
Format & Layout
A good use of formatting is vital to a successful CV. Choose an easy-to-read structure, with clear headings and highlight key points by using bullet points. Place emphasis on the information you want employers to see first and then use a logical order throughout the rest of the CV. This will allow us to find what we’re looking for quickly and help make the best impression possible within those precious seconds.
Avoid All The Clichés
Nothing’s more bland than a generic application.
Even though you might think phrases like ‘excellent team player’ and ‘good communication skills’ are essential, all they end up doing is make your CV look like everyone else’s. Instead, keep things positive, and always back up your attributes with real examples. Unique CVs are more likely to capture one of our recruiters’ attention, possibly landing you in the “yes pile”.
Conclusion
It can take just seven seconds to save or reject a job applicant’s CV. This means creating a succinct CV is absolutely vital if you want to land that all-important interview. It can be difficult to spot the flaws in your own CV. So, if you need pointers with your CV, ask a member of our recruitment team for help.
Contact us today here.