writing a cover letter

5 tips for writing a standout CV

In today’s job market it’s a must to get your CV noticed. Your CV is your first chance to show your skills, experience and personality so make sure you craft it well. Here are some tips to help you write a CV that gets noticed.

1. Tailor Your CV to Each Job: One of the best ways to get your CV noticed is to tailor it to the job you’re applying for. Read the job description carefully and highlight the key skills and experience the employer is looking for. Use this to adjust your CV and emphasise the most relevant qualifications and achievements that match the job.

2. Start with a Great Opening Statement: Begin your CV with a hook. This short introduction should summarise your career goals, key skills and what you can bring to the employer. Make it interesting and unique to grab the recruiter’s attention straight away. Don’t use generic phrases and instead highlight what makes you a valuable candidate.

 

3. Emphasise Your Achievements: Instead of listing your job responsibilities, focus on your achievements in each role. Use quantifiable metrics where possible, such as percentages, revenue figures or specific outcomes to show your impact. For example, instead of saying “Responsible for sales” say “Increased sales by 20% in one year through targeted marketing strategies”. This shows your skills and what you brought to your previous employers.

4. Use Clear Layout: A tidy CV is easier to read and more attractive to employers. Use clear headings, bullet points and consistent layout to guide the reader through your information. Stick to a professional font and keep it balanced. Make sure your contact details are at the top and keep your CV to two pages max to keep it focused.

 

5. Check and Edit: Finally, always check your CV for errors and inconsistencies. A CV with spelling mistakes or grammatical errors will give a bad impression to employers. Consider having a friend or colleague review it as well; a fresh set of eyes can pick up on mistakes you might have missed and give you feedback.

Writing a CV that gets noticed takes time and effort but by following these tips you can create a document that grabs attention and gets you noticed. Tailor your CV to each job, emphasis your achievements and keep it clear and professional. Now you’re ready to land that dream job!

 


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