How to write a CV that opens doors.

​​How confident are you about the impact of your CV? Your CV is your first opportunity to make a lasting impression on potential employers. A well-crafted CV can unlock doors to your dream job, while a poorly designed one may consign your application to the rejection pile. To assist you in standing out and presenting yourself effectively, we've gathered comprehensive CV advice from our expert recruiters. We also ask our Divisional Manager for Sales recruitment, what she looks for in a CV. Follow these tips to create a compelling CV that showcases your skills, experiences, and potential.

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1. Commence with a Strong Summary

Initiate your CV with a concise yet impactful summary statement. This should be a snapshot of your professional self, emphasizing your key skills, experiences, and career goals. Recruiters often spend only a few seconds scanning each CV, so your summary should seize their attention and encourage them to read further.

2. Tailor Your CV for the Job

One-size-fits-all doesn't work with CVs. Customize your CV for each job application by emphasizing the skills and experiences most relevant to the specific role. This shows that you've taken the time to understand the job and are genuinely interested in it.

3. Showcase Achievements

Rather than just listing your responsibilities, focus on your accomplishments in previous roles. Use quantifiable data and specific examples to demonstrate how you made a positive impact on your previous employers. This not only gives you credibility but also sets you apart from other candidates.

4. Highlight Relevant Skills

Employers are looking for candidates with the right skills. Clearly mention your technical, soft, and transferable skills in a dedicated section. Don't forget to include any certifications or courses that relate to the job you're applying for.

5. Use a Clean and Professional Format

Your CV's appearance matters. Use a clean, professional format with a legible font, consistent formatting, and bullet points for easy readability. Make sure it's well-organized and free of errors.

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Our UK Divisional Manager for sales recruitment, Yazmine Ruzgar, tells us what she looks for in a CV.

“The most important thing to remember is to be clear and concise. Recruiters and employers want it to be easy to read, so it needs to have a consistent structure and use standardised fonts. This portrays a candidate who is serious, and well-prepared for their job search…

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6. Keep It Concise

Recruiters appreciate brevity. A CV should ideally be no longer than two pages. Focus on the most relevant information, and avoid unnecessary details. This shows you can communicate effectively.

7. Include a Career Timeline

Present your work history in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. Include the company name, job title, dates of employment, and a brief description of your responsibilities and achievements. Be sure to account for any employment gaps.

8. Education Matters

List your educational background, including degrees, institutions, and graduation dates. Only include high school information if you're a recent graduate or it's specifically relevant to the job.

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Yazmine Ruzgar goes on to add

…when it comes to your summary, use this as a quick snapshot of you as a person in 3-4 lines, ensuring you always tailor what you say you’re looking for. You’ll be surprised how many CVs I see that are not up to date. If you’re a recent Graduate, list your education at the top and then your experience or jobs from your most to least recent.”

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9. Consider a Skills or Projects Section

In some cases, you might have skills or personal projects that aren't directly related to your work history but still demonstrate your qualifications. Include a separate section to showcase these, especially if they relate to the job you're applying for.

10. Proofread and Get Feedback

Before submitting your CV, proofread it thoroughly for grammar and spelling errors. Also, consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors. A fresh perspective can help you identify areas for improvement.

11. Don't Forget Keywords

Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen CVs. To ensure your CV gets past these systems, include relevant keywords from the job description. But be sure to use them naturally and not overdo it.

12. Contact Information

Provide up-to-date contact information, including your email address and phone number. Double-check that this information is accurate and professional.

13. Consider a Personal Statement

If applicable, you can include a brief personal statement or cover letter to explain any unique circumstances or why you're particularly interested in the role. However, keep it concise and relevant.

Your CV is your ticket to securing an interview, so it's essential to invest time and effort into its creation. By following these tips from our expert recruiters, you'll be well on your way to crafting a compelling CV that helps you stand out in the competitive job market. Remember, your CV is a dynamic document that should evolve as your career progresses, so keep it updated and ready for your next opportunity. Good luck with your job search!

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