When you’re ready to get your CV in order, take these five steps into account. Here’s how you can write an effective CV based on tips from the experts.
1. Create a new CV for each new job you apply to
Every time you want to apply for a new position or to a new company, make a fresh CV. The easy thing to do is make a generic CV and send it out to every place that you’re looking to apply to. But companies are well aware of this tactic; they can tell a generic CV from the one which has been specifically written for their company.
By taking the time to research each individual place that you are applying to and catering each CV to each different company, you set yourself apart from other applicants from the get-go. This simple approach shows companies that you’re serious about your application and that you’ve taken the time to familiarize yourself with the company you’re seeking employment at. It shows a level of commitment that many other applicants lack.
Experts suggest that the best way to convey that you’ve done your research about the company that you’re applying to is by using language catered towards them in particular. Remember to adapt your language to suit not only the company you’re applying to but also the position.
2. Know about the company you’re applying to
Take the time to thoroughly research the company you’re applying to. No two places that you’ll be applying to will be the same. While they may have similarities, it is not enough for you to make the same CV for multiple companies.
Your CV should clearly reflect the company that you are applying to. For instance, if you are applying to a law firm, make your CV crisp and to the point. On the other hand, if you’re applying for a more creative position, you have the advantage of being able to reflect your creative skills and personality through your CV.
Some of the ways that you can showcase your knowledge about the company include:
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Highlight the ethos and company policies which you are a fan of
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Explain why you’re drawn to this specific company
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Mention current projects that the company is engaged in that you’re interested in
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Highlight your skills which are in line with the company
3. Make a strong impression in 30 seconds
The HR department of any company sees a plethora of CV’s at any given time. The only way for your CV to stand out from the rest is by making a solid impression within 30 seconds or less. Many top recruitment experts stress that each CV gets a short amount of time in which it must make an impact.
In order to ensure your CV makes the impact you’re looking for, ask yourself the following questions:
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Is the layout clear and easy to follow?
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Is there any way to make the CV more eye catching?
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What sort of layout would be most effective for the specific company you’re applying to? For instance, is the company new, creative and cutting edge or more traditional? Based on your answer, you’ll be able to choose a layout which is most appealing for the company.
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Are your most important points clearly highlighted?
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Is there any way to reduce the amount of points/items on your CV?
4. Identify all your strengths
One of the most important things you want to do is clearly identify all of your strengths. Make sure this information is presented clearly and is noticeable to the reader. Again, keep in mind the company and position you’re applying for. This will help you decide which points are most important to highlight.
Some of the ways in which you can draw attention to your strong points include:
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Using bold and italics
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Placing the important points closer to the top of the page
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Using bullet points
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Highlighting, underlining, or using a different color
Ultimately your goal is to bring attention to your strengths quickly and efficiently. Use whatever strategy you think works best for you.
5. Show that you are a problem solver
This is arguably one of the most important things that you need to be able to convey. When a company is hiring for a specific position, they have a need which needs to be met. In order to ensure that they get the most qualified candidate for the job, the company lists the qualities that they are seeking from applicants. This is your clearest indicator of what the company wants; this is what you need to study thoroughly.
By examining the criteria set out by the company you’ll be able to identify what it is exactly that the company needs. You will then be in a position to market yourself as the solution to the particular problem that the company is facing or having.
In your CV, clearly demonstrate that you understand what the company is looking for and show them that you are the perfect candidate to help solve the company’s problems.
If you follow these five tips when writing your next CV, you may just end up getting the job of your dreams. Take that extra time to prune your CV and prospective employers will be more inclined to call you in for an interview.
