As we know, today's job market is extremely competitive! Recruiters often take only the best few CVs to the next level, as they have to screen out a large number of CVs for a single position.
If you want to land a really good job, your CV must be able to compete against a crowd of other equally qualified candidates. There are steps you need to consider to get an employer's attention in just a few seconds. We have compiled what you need to do to prepare an effective CV!
Choose the Right Format
Choosing the popular enough "chronological CV" format may seem risk-free and correct at first. Just like this format, there may be many formats that are more suitable for the job position you will apply for. A skills-based CV can be more effective as it draws more attention to your abilities rather than your experience. Just like it, the “combined CV” adequately emphasizes both experience and relevant skills.
Model Your CV for the Job You Want
Hiring managers focus more on specific skills and industry-related expertise, not general content or skills. In order to give employers what they are looking for, you should customize the CV according to the job you are applying for. As a result of proper research on the roles your job requires and the company, you can include your most relevant knowledge and experience in your CV. Additionally, be sure to include targeted keywords that will help your CV stand out. If you are applying to a larger company, your CV may go through an automated system, and these keywords will save you!
Pay Attention to Formatting
Allowing reviewers of your CV to easily navigate between categories and files will make it easier for them to retrieve important information. Long and tiring paragraphs are the first thing you should avoid. Instead, you can divide the information into easily digestible sections. Put the most important information on the first two-thirds of the first page and make the most of the available white space. Also, be very careful not to have your paragraphs split in half on two pages.
Do not Be Too Personal
You need to be careful about the personal details you add to your resume. Unnecessary personal information in an effective CV not only influences an employer's decision but also takes up unnecessary space. You can also stop using personal pronouns like "I" and "mine" to avoid duplication and wasting valuable space in your CV. Your perception of "personality" should not go beyond hobbies that are related to your job and represents you!
Include Useful Links
Today, most CVs are sent electronically. One of the biggest advantages of this is; is that you can make your CV even more informative and concrete by adding links to your professional social media profiles, your online portfolio, or your professional blog. This is of course a great opportunity to captivate recruiters and present them with the realism of your expertise in your field!
So, before submitting your resume, be sure to include links to relevant platforms that can prove your work. These should be placed in the header of the first page along with your contact information.