You never know when that ideal job will present itself, so be ready and get to the top of the pile of CV's… or a Specialist Recruiter's first thought as that fabulous job comes in.

How?

Think of your favourite TV advert and what draws you in, then think just how much creativity your CV could use. It's your personal advert and the gateway to your dream job! Get noticed for all the right reasons; your talents, potential and desire for success…

Whether you're applying directly or engaging a professional recruiter to assist you, 'dress your CV to impress'! Match the type and level of role you are applying for in such a way that employers/recruiters find you interesting as a candidate, thinking carefully about factual emphasis and creative balance.

Prioritise your information to catch attention, including evidence of what you offer. Stretch yourself in terms of the way you write and the words you use. A CV has its own grammar, not necessarily using sentences and paragraphs. Imagine how a professional recruiter would compose a concise profile about you; add an attractive yet simplistic style, and you will be on track.

Avoid:

• Boxes, graphics, and templates
• Photos (unless you are a performer)
• The use of fancy fonts (Tahoma and Verdana are perfect for email)
• Your CV being longer than 2/3 pages
• Creating a believable web of deceit, be totally honest
• One size does not fit all, tailor your CV regularly
• Using your 'teenage' email address that used to be funny
• Stating your date of birth - focus on your ability

Ensure you:

• Take time to create a CV that stands out and add a covering letter
• Use keywords, as software is often used to identify and shortlist CVs
• Back up factual qualifications, skills, and experience with examples
• Be succinct making sure your CV is current as well as relevant
• Demonstrate integrity, commitment, and desire
• Start with your most recent role first, and account for any gaps
• Are accurate, proofreading and testing on your friends
• Use size 10 font to make the best use of space

Before you start writing your new and improved CV this spring, pause. Take out a clean sheet of paper, think and then scribble all those things you would like your new employer to know about you. Refrain from the norm, do not say you are enthusiastic, work well in a team, like people and are kind to animals! Think about how you portray these messages in a refreshing, compelling, yet professional manner. A snapshot of your working day is always an interesting way to back up your skills, strengths, and experience.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss your CV with us, please contact us