Creating a strong CV is crucial for making a good first impression on potential employers. Here are some important tips and tricks for creating an effective CV:
1. Choose the right format
– Chronological: Lists work experience in reverse chronological order, best for those with a solid work history.
– Functional: Focuses on skills and experience and is suitable for people with gaps in employment or are changing careers.
– Combination: Combines chronological and functional formats, highlighting skills while providing a timeline of career progression.
2. Customize your resume for each job
– Customize your resume for each job by highlighting relevant experience and skills.
– Use keywords from the job description to run through applicant tracking systems (ATS).
3. Start with a meaningful summary
– Write a concise summary that highlights your key qualifications and career goals.
– Focus on what you bring to the table and how you can add value to the employer.
4. Highlight achievements, not just tasks
– Describe in bullet points your responsibilities and accomplishments in each role.
– Quantify your achievements with numbers, percentages and measurable results (e.g. “increased sales by 20% in six months”).
5. Focus on relevant skills
– List the skills that are relevant to the job you are applying for.
– Consider both hard skills (technical skills) and soft skills (communication, teamwork).
6. Keep it short and sweet
– Aim for a one-page resume if you have less than 10 years of work experience; two pages if you have more.
– Use a clean, professional layout with consistent formatting.
– Avoid clutter and overuse of colors and fonts.
7. Use action verbs
– Begin each bullet point with a meaningful action verb (e.g. “Developed”,” “Managed”,” “Managed”).
– Avoid passive language and repetitive phrases.
8. List education and certifications
– List your education in reverse chronological order.
– Include relevant certifications, training and continuing education courses.
9. Add relevant projects and volunteer activities
– Include projects and volunteer activities that highlight your skills and accomplishments.
– Treat important projects and volunteer activities like work experience, with descriptions and results.
10. Proofread and edit
– Proofread your resume carefully for spelling, grammar and formatting errors.
– Ask a friend or mentor to review your resume for additional feedback.
11. Include contact information
– Make sure your contact information (phone number, email address) is current and professional.
– Include a link to your LinkedIn profile or professional portfolio if applicable.
12. Avoid common mistakes
– Do not include irrelevant personal information (e.g. marital status, age).
– Avoid jargon or overly complex language.
– Do not lie or exaggerate about your experience and skills.
Example of how to structure a CV:
[Your name] [Your address] | [Your email] | [Your phone number] | [LinkedIn profile]
Professional Summary: Motivated and results-oriented [your profession] with over [X] years of experience in [industry/field]. Proven track record of [key achievements]. Competent in [relevant skills] and known for [personal strengths].
Experience: [job title] [company name], [location] | [month/year] – [month/year]
– Achievement 1
– Achievement 2
– Responsibility 1
– Responsibility 2
Education: [Degree] [University], [City] | [Year of graduation]
Skills:
– Skill 1
– Skill 2
– Skill 3
Certifications:
– Certification 1
– Certification 2
Projects: [Project title]
– Description and results
Volunteer Experience: [Volunteer Role] [Organisation], [Location] | [Month/Year] – [Month/Year]
– Achievement/Contribution
By following these tips and tricks, you can create a resume that effectively showcases your qualifications and increases your chances of landing the desired job.
