How to give yourself the best chance to get your CV in the 'interview' tray, rather
than the bin.
The web is awash with websites and 'CV services' giving you advice on how to make
the most of your CV. After all, it's a pretty important document and a good CV can
literally help change your entire career path (sorry, no additional pressure intended
- but, it's true).
Rather than list a lengthy diatribe of advice on 'how to', we simply asked our clients
about the key DOs and DON'Ts in CV-land. What gets a CV noticed and what turns them
off? They are leading agencies and clients receiving thousands of CVs every month
- so they know what makes a CV stand out, as the best or the worst.
So, try and stick to these basic rules before submitting your CV online and give
yourself the best chance of getting to the next stage. They might look pretty simple
and logical, but make SURE your CV follows these basic rules. Oh, good luck!
The DOs
- Check your spelling very carefully (and the grammar). Getting the basics right is
VERY important.
- Keep it short, clear and concise. Avoid more than 2 pages (3 at most), and make
sure there's plenty of white space to make it more attractive on the eye.
- Try and tailor it to the role you're applying for. It could just be tweaking the
way you describe your last role, or two, to highlight any relevant responsibilities
or achievements your prospective employer may be looking for in the new role.
- Start with your last/current job first.
- Be concise with your description of each role. DO NOT WAFFLE. Just the job title;
dates you started and left; then key responsibilities of the role; then, your key
achievement(s). Nothing else.
- Put your name and clear contact detail information at the top of the first page.
Don't make it hard for them to find it!
- Double-check your spelling and grammar (or ask someone else to help).
Do Not
- Spell words incorrectly!
- Waffle! Remember, keep it concise and not more than 2-3 pages max.
- Be 'fancy' or clever with the layout. Keep it clean, clear, relevant and concise
with a professional typeface.
- Be negative about yourself! For example, don't put in negative reasons for leaving
previous jobs. That can come out later in the interview when you have the chance
to discuss things in person.
- Leave gaps in the dates. They'll just worry you're hiding something.
- Cram the information onto the page. Leave some white space to let the words 'breathe'
(not to mention the reader).
- Go over the top on the 'Interests' bit at the end. It's good to include some information
about your personal life, but keep it simple, realistic and current. You won't impress
anyone when they ask how the 'mountain climbing' is going and your answer on a long-past
or made-up hobby is a bit of an uphill struggle in itself!
TOP TIP - Always personalize a cover letter with each application. It helps you
to make a connection with the reader, be relevant and stand out! However, keep it
simple and professional (check the cover letter feature in our 'apply' process,
and use it!).
However, stick to the DOs and DON'Ts above and you won't go too far wrong. Good
luck!