Polish Your CV and Stand Out.

When it comes to job hunting, having a polished and well-crafted CV is crucial. It’s often the first impression that a potential employer has of you and can be the deciding factor in whether they invite you for an interview or not. However, creating a CV that stands out from the crowd can be a challenge, and many job seekers struggle with knowing what to include and how to present their skills and experience in the best possible light.

Fortunately, there are several tips and tricks that can help job seekers to create a winning CV. From tailoring the content to the specific role and company to using clear and concise language to highlighting achievements and accomplishments, there are many ways to make a CV stand out. Below are some top tips for polishing your CV and improving your chances of landing your dream job.

1.       Tailor your CV to the job you’re applying for.

One of the biggest mistakes people make when creating their CV is making it too general. Instead, take the time to tailor your CV to the job you’re applying for. This means highlighting the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position you’re seeking. Make sure that your CV speaks directly to the needs of the employer.

2.       Keep it concise.

While 2 pages is considered ideal by many, don’t be so concerned about space that important details are left out – it’s better to have a well-crafted 3-page CV than a shorter version that omits relevant details. Make sure to include the most important details, such as your education, work experience, and relevant skills. Avoid using long paragraphs and opt for bullet points instead. This will make it easier for potential employers to scan your CV quickly.

3.       Use strong action verbs.

When describing your work experience and achievements, use strong action verbs to make your accomplishments stand out. Instead of saying “was responsible for” or “assisted with,” use verbs such as “managed,” “led,” or “implemented.” This will help to convey a sense of confidence and leadership.

4.       Highlight your accomplishments.

Don’t just list your responsibilities at each job – make sure to highlight and quantify your accomplishments. This could include meeting sales targets, reducing costs, or launching a successful marketing campaign. By highlighting your achievements, you’ll demonstrate your value to potential employers.

5.       Pay attention to formatting.

Your CV should be easy to read and well-organised. Use headings to break up different sections, and make sure that the font and font size are consistent throughout. Use a professional-looking font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, and avoid using bright colours or funky designs.

6.       Include relevant keywords.

Many employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan CVs for relevant keywords, so it’s important to include them throughout your CV. Look at the job description and make sure to include any relevant keywords, such as specific skills, software programs or certifications.

7.       Proofread, proofread, proofread.

Finally, make sure to proofread your CV carefully before sending it off. Spelling and grammar errors can make a poor impression, so it’s important to double-check for mistakes. Consider asking a friend or family member to review your CV as well – a fresh set of eyes can often catch errors that you may have missed.

 

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating an impressive CV that will help you make a great first impression on potential employers. Remember to use a reverse chronological order to list your experiences, starting with the most recent, and be sure to include your contact information, including your name, phone number, email address and LinkedIn profile. With a little effort, you can create a polished and professional CV that will help you stand out from the competition.

 

Apache Associates are specialists in IT and Sales recruitment, and we pride ourselves in treating every candidate as a unique individual and go above and beyond to match the right people with the right role. We have a clear approach to recruitment that’s places an emphasis on people, not on numbers.

 

Visit our website for details of our current opportunities in IT and Sales

or call 01727 260 566 to speak to a member of our team.