As you might not know about me, I love spending my time reading some various tips from websites, newspapers and magazines. There are particularly some I have remembered from reading the BBC’s CV tips which I will share with you too.
Obviously, your CV’s purpose is to get you an interview. As much as I wouldn’t want to admit it’s like a self-advertisement – it is. What you want is to put yourself in such a light, that the person reading it would want to call you. Your purpose is to show them you’re worth it! However, bear in mind, that you need to be able to properly discuss the things you have put on your CV – don’t lie and overexaggerate it too much.
My tip for you is to write an accurate reflection of you and your skills, which, as mentioned in the point above, means do not lie! Eventually, they will find out and you’ll end up in a very, very awkward situation. Highlight your successes and achievements, summarise your relevant skills, experience and knowledge. Add the qualifications you think they need to see and show them why you’re unique!
Unfortunately, it’s better for you if you spend the time to tailor it to a specific role. Imagine how tricky it would be to write one CV that fits all kinds of roles from an operator to a writer! It might be annoying but it’s worth doing it.
Our CV tips continue with the suggestion that you can also add various projects or activities you’ve been involved in. Of course, saying you have been to a painting seminar when you’re applying for an engineering role might be slightly unnecessary, but the trick is to find a way to link the activity to the role you’re applying to. How it helps you to be a better candidate and all.
You probably know this already but use proper language! Additionally, many employers use keyword searches to filter the candidates they think would fit best. Hence why it is crucial to mention those in your cover letter/CV.
Your personal statement might be the very first impression the employer gets from you. Goes without saying, it needs to be nearly perfect! Use it to summarise your skills without sounding repetitive (it is a pain, I know). Moreover, it can be used as a guiding tool to show which areas you’re interested in.
Another one of the CV tips is to suit your CV to the type of job offer you’re applying to. The chronological CV is the most widely used format. It focuses on your career history, which usually goes at the top. This particular type of CV is suitable for highlighting your career progression.
The functional CV focuses on your skills and competencies in particular areas. Use this format if you lack experience in the area you’re applying to or if you have gaps in your employment history.
The third CV format is hybrid. It combines elements from both the chronological CV and the functional CV. It’s a good choice for people who have a range of experience and skills, such as freelancers. Whichever format you like the most, it’s up to you!
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