Are you currently looking for a new career opportunity? Sending out your CV and uploading it online in hope of a callback? If so this is the blog for you. As a recruitment agency, we know exactly what to do to make your CV stand out and improve your employment chances. Here are some of our top tips:
First impressions matter. Think about the first things employers and recruiters see when they look at your CV. There are two things you should focus on, let's go through them one by one:
Design/Layout
The first thing you see when you look at a CV is the way it looks. CV’s are known for being a formal document and being very neat. Depending on what role you apply for, your CV design should reflect you. If it’s an admin role, make your CV very tidy, formal and easy to read.
If you're applying for a design role, show off your skills through your CV. Be creative, make your CV different to the rest but don’t over complicate it. A lot of design CV’s are now being made as infographics so maybe try that? Make your CV reflect you as a professional.
Opening paragraph
After the first glance, the first thing we look at is the opening paragraph. This personal profile is an important part of your CV and tells the recruiter exactly who you are, so you want to make the right impression. This is where they should be able to find a brief summary of you as a professional and be able to navigate the rest of the CV based on that section of your CV. Make sure to include a short summary of your skills and key accomplishments.
Results over responsibilities
Rather than listing your past responsibilities, make your CV stand out by showing off your results, using quantifiable data to show your accomplishments. Employers want to know about your previous contributions and specifically how you’ve made a difference. More importantly, they want to know how you are going to make a significant difference at their company. Rather than list tasks which you’ve been given and completed, list what you have achieved. To be effective and create excitement, a great CV helps the hiring executive envisage you delivering similar achievements at his or her company.
Industry insight
An awareness of the industry you are applying for will show the recruiter that you have the ability to stay on top of trends. You will be a lot more attractive to employers if you are able to demonstrate knowledge of the industry, so make sure you are up to date with any news and industry changes. This will also help you if you reach the interview stage.
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