Two CV tips

I have been having a think about that tips I tend to give to candidates on a day-to-day basis and thought that I would share the two most common ones that I suggest. 

Most of us have a CV that consists of two or so pages listing the names of the companies we have worked for, the dates we were there and what the role was.  It is then quite usual for us to include a list our duties. 

Whilst a list of duties is a good check list for what we have done or are doing in our jobs, it really doesn’t add value to the CV or make the reader, be it a recruiter or a possible future employer, know why they should pick you for their candidate shortlist.

What makes a candidate stand out is knowing how he/she made a difference in their role(s).  Many candidates can list similar duties on their CV, but what specifically did you do to make a difference?  How did your initiative or creativity impact on the business (be it on a small or grand scale)?  Positive wording is key, make someone wants to read your CV and get you in for that first meeting.

You might think that this is pretty much the same as a list of achievements but think about making all of your CV forward thinking and differentiate yourself from the competition.

The other tip that I have is to make sure that you ask your recruiter if there are any particular skills that the client is looking for that you can then highlight on your CV.  We should have had a briefing chat with our client(s) and know what skills they really are looking for and not just what is printed in black and white – so pick our brains!

Taking the time to tailor your CV to a role can really make a difference and ensure your CV doesn’t end up in the ‘reject’ pile. 

We do support your application with a candidate profile, where we will let the client know why we think you are suitable for the role, but if your CV is forwarded on then it is not guaranteed that your profile will follow.  So make sure your CV works as a standalone document. 

CVs are personal and you might not agree with the above, but please have a chat with us before we submit your application to ensure you are happy with what you are presenting to your possible future employer!

Comments

[writing resume]

Positive wording is key, make someone wants to read your CV and get you in for that first meeting.

[Travel Careers Forum]

Yeah, these are excellent tips. It's always a good idea to demonstrate how you've benefited previous employers.

[cv examples]

nice blog, i'm impressed by reading this, thanks for sharing.

[Resume Format]

First impression is the best impressions. So make your CV attractive for the recruiters by highlighting the skills required for the job!!!

[Chris Barnes]

Good article. I like the point about asking a recruiter about spefic skills required. Job advertisements also help provide masssive clues as to what the recruiter is looking for. Yes CV should be designed around being able to stand alone but always send a cover letter with it.