Get your CV in top shape with these CV tips
Are you looking for a job? Read our CV tips and get your search for employment off to a great start. While using a CV template is a good idea, there are plenty of steps you can take to make your CV stand out from the crowd. Once your curriculum vitae is in top shape, you can use Job Mail to begin your job search.
Before hitting send on your job application, make sure to check the state of the following things on your CV:
1. Spelling!
Spelling errors are likely to result in prospective employers thinking twice about your curriculum vitae. These mistakes reveal more than just an inability to spell, they show a lack of attention-to-detail, effort, and commitment to your work. With spell check, it’s easy to avoid spelling mistakes. It’s advisable to read through your CV numerous times to double check the spelling, dates, and contact details. Once you’re done so, ask a friend to check your CV to make sure that there are no mistakes that you missed. You could even get a professional editor to go over your CV to make sure everything is perfect.
2. Your CV must showcase your experience for the position you’re applying for
A generic curriculum vitae that you send out to everyone won’t get you noticed. In order to catch your prospective employer’s attention, you’ll need to show them why they should hire you. Start with a cover letter which emphasises the experience and qualifications that make you the best fit for the job. Read the job advert carefully to check that you have an adequate understanding of what the company is looking for. While it’s important to be completely honest, you can focus on the capabilities that you have that match the employer’s requirements.
3. Is it simple and to the point?
Before you start your job search, make sure that your CV is simple and to the point. The layout of your CV as well the font that you use are crucial to making a good first impression. Keep it simple so that your CV is easy to read. The focus should be on your skills and experience without the distraction of a fancy font. Likewise, the format and layout of your CV should be simple. Your cover letter should be short and to the point with a length of 250 to 300 words. If you’re not sure how to set out your curriculum vitae, you can use a CV template.
4. Are your references still available?
Including references that aren’t available anymore makes you seem unprepared when you’re looking for a job. It also prevents your prospective employers from hearing about how great you are. Before you submit an application, check that your references can be reached with the contact details that you have on record. It’s advisable to let your references know that they may be contacted for a reference so that they are expecting the call.
5. Did you list recent experience or qualifications?
An incomplete or outdated CV makes you look unprofessional. Make sure that you take the time to include your recent work experience as well as any new qualifications you’ve obtained. A commitment to continuous learning is a trait that most employers are looking for. It’s also important to account for any gaps in your work history as periods of unemployment are likely to make employers question them.
6. Is everything factual, correct, and truthful
Lying on your CV is a terrible idea. Reliability and honesty are characteristics that all employers are looking for in their staff. When you lie on your CV, you show your employer that you can’t be trusted. If you end up getting hired, you’re setting yourself up for failure, as you’ll be expected to perform tasks that you don’t have the capabilities to complete.
Now that you’ve read our CV tips, you can upgrade your curriculum vitae and start looking for employment. A top-quality CV is a vital part of any job search.
Much appreciated