7 Golden Rules For Writing A Knockout CV That Will Get You Interview

Are you looking for your dream job?  You should have a killer CV for you to get it.

End year is approaching and crafting a good CV is the basis for any successful job application. Although your CV is not guaranteed to get you a job, it can stop you from getting an interview especially if it is not customized to the position.

Use your CV to sell yourself to a potential employer and ensure that it reflects your achievements and personality. The content should be professional as well as your presentation.

Keep in mind that your CV is not just about the list of your skills and experience. It is about creating the first impression to the employer.

Truth is, the job market is highly competitive and in today’s tough economy, finding a new job is crushing and frustrating for most. However, fine-tuning your CV can help secure the interview.

So, which checklist will help you refine your CV and get you over the first hurdle and get the interview?

Here are 7 golden rules:

1. Customize Your CV to Individual Jobs

This may sound obvious but it is essential to tailor your CV to the job you are applying for. Match the keywords that are essential to the job and ensure they feature in your CV.

Think of what you can bring to the role and connect with what the employer is looking for.  Focus on unique qualities that will help you stand out and showcase the skills and experience that will help you add value to the company.

2. Back-Up Your Skills With Evidence

Listing many skills and roles in your CV may be meaningless to an employer unless they are backed up.  Use facts and highlight your value by demonstrating your skills.

Use figures as evidence. For example, provide figures as evidence – provide statistics of what you achieved and also include a link to your digital portfolio (if you have), for the employer to see what you have produced.

3. Be Eye Catching

A well-crafted CV is a direct ticket to getting an interview. It will be sad if every time you apply for a job and your CV is kept in a ‘no’ pile because it doesn’t look good.

With many applicants applying for the same position, think of ways that can make you stand out. Think of design and layout because this will grab the employer’s attention.

4. Be Focused

Show the employer what you want in your next job and why with a 60-word career profile at the top of your CV.  This should include, your professional objective, your expertise in the industry, your unique selling point, and highlight the most relevant skills.

5. Be Relevant

When tailoring your CV, highlight the skills and experience that are relevant to the position. It is not important to mention all the skills you have had.

6. Be Concise

Employers spend little time going through your CV hence you should keep your CV concise and provide the information that will grab their attention with the 6 seconds they spend scanning your CV. Keep your CV 3-4 pages and use bullets to convey the information.

7.Use The Right Language

No matter the position you are applying for, ensure that you adapt your writing to the right language. Include the keywords in the industry so that if your CV is passed through the ATS system; you will not miss the opportunity. By adopting the language in your writing, you will stand a chance of being considered.

Summary

Your CV can either give you a chance of getting your foot into the interview door or you getting regrets each time you apply for a position. Ensure that your CV sells your skills and shows the value you will bring to the table.

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