The world has changed. The expectation to stay with one business hoping to rise to the top has gone. People are looking for their next promotion rather than holding out it will be handed out. The post-pandemic world has also changed people's decision making when it comes to work. Wanting to construct a working environment which suits individual needs as well as working for businesses which align with your own values has moved up the agenda when considering a job.
BE READY – SORTING OUT YOUR CV
There are many reasons to be looking for a new role. You could be looking for your next step up in your career, a better working environment, or more flexibility. Whatever your reason, one thing that you need to make sure, before your start looking is getting your CV in order.
Writing a CV can be stressful, whether you are updating an existing CV or creating one from scratch. There are some basic rules for constructing your CV, which then can be tailored for each application to highlight your abilities the best.
CV MUST HAVES
Personal Details
Ok, its basic, but there are many times when we receive CV’s that do not include their name, email or phone number. Make sure this is visible and at the top of your CV.
Personal Statement
A short paragraph that states, who you are, what you have to offer and what you are looking for can help you stand out. Take the time to tailor this to be relevant for each application.
Work Experience
Starting with your most recent job, you should include your job title, the company you worked for, how long you worked there, and a list of key responsibilities.
Achievements
Show how you’re right for the role. Use examples to show your previous experience and the skills you have gained. Link these achievements to the requirements within the role you’re applying for.
Education
Include your educational achievements, including dates and the level of education with the grades you achieved. Depending on your balance between your work experience vs education, you can emphases the skills you have gained from your education that you may not have it from a working environment.
Hobbies and Interests
Ok so this isn’t an essential addition to your CV, however, it may be that your hobby fits into your application and is worth including. However, if you are only going to include something like “spending time with friends and family” then it is better to leave it out.
KEYWORDS FOR CVs
Knowing what to say, and what people look for can be tough. Here is a list of some keywords to include in your CV:
Accurate
Adaptable
Confident
Hard-working
Innovative
Pro-active
Reliable
Responsible
Make sure that you're able to back up your attributes by linking them to achievements and examples you have. This will help you stand out and show hiring managers you are a great fit for the role.
PRESENTATION IS KEY
Your CV is your first impression to a potential employer, so how it looks at first glance is important so a hiring manager will choose to read it in more detail. Your skills could match perfectly, but get passed over because your CV is messy.
Keep it short and clear – two sides of A4 should be enough
Choose a professional and clear font – make your CV easy to read, and look professional
Layout matters – be logical in ordering your CV. Make sure spacing is enough and create sections with clear headings
Put your most recent experience first – highlight what you have done most recently first and then work back
Check spelling and grammar
JUST THE START
Even though you have put your CV together, this is just the beginning of the journey.
Every job you apply for is going to be slightly different and you should tailor your CV accordingly to stand out. Take the time to edit and adjust your CV in line with the requirements and responsibilities of the role you are applying for.
Make sure you highlight:
Specific skills you have to offer in the role
Your accomplishments to fit the opportunity
Any work and education experience you have in their field
Personal attributes you have that suit the role
Demonstrate you understand what the job role is about
READY TO START YOUR SEARCH?
If you’re ready to look for your next role why not speak to one of our consultants about how we can help you find what you’re looking for.
