CV ADVICE

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CV ADVICE

The CV is your main entry point into a new job or career, it is what will get you to the interview stage, so taking the time to analyse the vacancy and compare the role with your key skills is paramount.

Everything you detail from employment history to hobbies tells a potential new employer something about you. The employer will be looking for a specific type of person, not only with suitable experience or qualifications, but also the most appropriate cultural match.

A well written CV will be something that paints a picture of you, whilst detailing achievements and future aspirations to get you that all important interview.

Nowadays agencies and employers are receiving hundreds of CVs for each role so it is vital that your CV and covering letter stand out from the crowd. This includes CV adaptations for each role.

 

The fundamental principles of targeting your CV:

  • Align your skill descriptions to those requested within the job specification
  • Use similar terminology, this will strike engagement and trigger a connection
  • If you do not possess the exact experience, ensure you demonstrate desire to learn
  • Focus on relevancy – if you are tight for space, remove anything that has not been requested

 

GENERAL TIPS & TRICKS

Think of your CV as a sales brochure. Your sole purpose at this point is to get to the interview table, everything else can follow.  

Your CV should be immaculate in its presentation, easy to follow and contain a crystal clear and concise description of yourself in simple relevant language.

 

Consider the following:

  • Keep everything to a minimum – white space on your CV will make it easy to read and use bullet points where appropriate.
  • Your CV should be no more than two pages
  • Your education, skills and experience should illuminate your CV and mirror your suitability for the job.
  • You have 10-15 seconds to impress and engage the reader – be precise, concise and entice.
  • Short snappy sentences are easy to read and grab attention.
  • If you are recently out of college or university, it could be worth emphasising on your results, team work, volunteering, extra curricular activities, awards etc.

 

The most common attributes which employers look for are:

  • Ability to learn new skills and adaptable to change
  • Capability to work under pressure and communicate effectively
  • Reliable, trustworthy and a team player but can act on own initiative
  • Fit into the company’s culture and maintain a positive attitude

 

If you have any further questions about this or if you wish to contact us directly, please use our contact form www.staffgroup.com/contact-us