Your CV is often the first impression you make on a potential employer. A well-written CV highlights your skills, experience and achievements in a clear, concise and compelling way. Follow these top CV writing tips to create a CV that stands out:
1. Keep it Relevant
Tailor your CV to each job you apply for. Highlight skills and experience that directly relate to the role. Read the job description carefully and match your qualifications to the employer's requirements.
2. Focus on Achievements
Don’t just list your duties. Use powerful action verbs to describe your achievements and accomplishments in each role. Quantify your results with facts and data.
3. Use a Clear Structure
Organize your CV with clear section headings such as Work Experience, Education, and Skills. Use bullet points to break up dense blocks of text. White space makes your CV more visually appealing.
4. Optimize for Applicant Tracking Systems
Many companies use ATS to scan CV's. Optimize yours by using key words from the job ad, standard headings, and a simple layout.
5. Perfect your Profile
The profile or personal statement tops your CV. Write 3-4 concise sentences summing up your biggest selling points for the role.
6. List Education After Experience
Once you have a few years' experience, list your work history first. Education takes precedence for recent graduates.
7. Avoid a Career Summary
Replace this unfocused section with a short profile, skills section, or by integrating your most relevant skills into your work history.
8. Be Concise
Keep your CV to 1-2 pages in length. Use clear, compressed writing that conveys a lot of information quickly. Make every word count.
9. Use a Professional Format
Stick to standard fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri in size 10-12. Include 1 inch margins with black ink on white paper.
10. Check for Errors
Proofread thoroughly and check for spelling, grammar, and formatting errors. Ask someone else to review it.
11. List References Separately
Add a line that says “References available upon request”, but don’t list contact info. Provide references only when requested.
12. Adapt for Online Applications
When uploading your CV to a job site, name the file so it's easily searchable. Avoid headers, footers and columns.
13. Showcase Technical Expertise
For technical roles, include a Skills section outlining proficiency with software, systems, languages, tools etc.
14. Be Truthful
Don’t exaggerate or misrepresent yourself. Honesty is essential.
15. Update Frequently
Tweak your CV regularly with new accomplishments and skills. Outdated information raises red flags.
Following these tips will ensure your CV makes the best impression on recruiters and hiring managers. Showcase your top assets effectively and land more interviews. Now you're ready to start applying for your dream job!