Did you know that CVs have been around for over 500 years? Yet still, it seems everyone has a different opinion and offers up different advice on them… making it a confusing subject for anyone searching for work!
In my career as an IT recruiter, I’ve reviewed thousands of CVs. The good, the bad and the ugly! My biggest takeaway from this is that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
I feel us humans can’t truly share our whole selves on 2-4 pages of paper! But what I do know is the CVs aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.
So, I wanted to share some advice on CVs for anyone who needs a little assistance on this subject.
Be YOU!
Your CV’s personal profile is your chance to shine and showcase what sets you apart. Avoid generic statements and make it all about YOU! Think about your unique skills, experiences, and accomplishments that make you the perfect candidate for the job. Keep your profile concise, around one paragraph in length, and make it memorable.
Things to avoid on your CV.
To create an impactful CV, avoid simply listing skills without context. Instead, focus on showcasing your key skills through specific accomplishments and experiences. Tailor your CV to match the job you’re applying for, emphasizing relevant skills and achievements.
Things to remember.
Make sure your contact details are up-to-date! Sounds a bit obvious but it’s easy to forget!
A suggested structure for a CV.
There are lots of templates and formats when it comes to CVs. If you are finding it difficult to decide, below is a simple yet highly effective structure for a CV.
Personal Profile – A brief introduction highlighting your unique qualities and skills.
Key Achievements – Present your top 6 to 8 achievements with relevant examples. Highlight outcomes you’ve achieved in your CV, rather than a list of skills.
Career History – Start with your current role and list your work experiences in reverse chronological order, including responsibilities and achievements.
Education/Qualification- Provide details of your educational background and relevant qualifications.
Interests- Add a section about your interests and hobbies to display your personality outside of work.
The 2-page CV!
There isn’t a rule about CV length, but recently there has been a lot of talk about only having a 2-page CV!
My advice on this would be, don’t cram all your information into a 2-page document if you feel it doesn’t do you or your experience justice. A well-structured 4-page CV will be much better received than a crammed 2 paged one! Focus on presenting your skills and experiences effectively, without overwhelming the reader.
Your CV is your chance to shine and show your true potential. Remember, it’s not about fitting into a mould, but about confidently presenting what makes you stand out as the perfect candidate for the job.
If you need any help or advice on your CV please do reach out, I would love to help.
