5 Common Job Application Mistakes

shafaq malik

Tips for Creating a CV

June 1, 2023

A CV, short for Curriculum Vitae, is a comprehensive overview of a person’s educational background, work experience, and special skills. It serves as a document representation of a job application, playing a crucial role in advancing your career. In this article, I will discuss some key points to keep in mind while creating a perfect CV.

1. Use a professional font:

When it comes to choosing a font for your CV, it’s important to consider readability and professionalism. Employers typically have limited time to review each resume, so it’s crucial to make it concise and easy to read. Opt for fonts like Times New Roman or Arial, which are widely recognized and commonly used in professional settings. Keep the font size between 10 and 12 points to strike a balance between readability and information density. By selecting a clear and readable font, along with proper formatting and minimal whitespace, your resume will appear more professional and polished.

2. Use active verbs:

To make your resume more engaging and impactful, it’s important to write it using active language and eliminate extraneous words. Incorporate powerful verbs like “accomplished,” “achieved,” “competent,” and “earned” to convey a sense of action and achievement. Active verbs help showcase your abilities and accomplishments in a dynamic way. Additionally, if your CV appears lengthy or difficult to read, consider using shorter sentences to make it more concise. This will streamline the information and make it easier for employers to quickly grasp your qualifications.

3. Include relevant information:

While it’s important to showcase your comprehensive work or educational experience, it’s equally important to keep your CV brief. Research indicates that hiring managers typically spend only around 6 seconds per resume. Therefore, prioritize relevant information that aligns with the employer’s requirements. Include details about your education, achievements, and skills that directly relate to the position you’re applying for. Carefully read the job description to identify key attributes and tailor your CV accordingly. By focusing on the most relevant information, you increase your chances of capturing the attention of potential employers.

Ads

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});

End of ads

4. Choose proper margins:

Maintaining appropriate margins is crucial for a clean and professional CV layout. Aim to have one-inch margins on all sides of your document, as this is a standard and visually appealing format. It provides sufficient whitespace, giving your CV a balanced and organized look. Additionally, use a single space between lines to enhance readability. If your CV appears to have excessive whitespace or feels too spread out, you can adjust the line spacing slightly between 1.15 and 1.5. However, avoid exceeding 2-inch margins or making the document look too crowded. Striking the right balance will ensure your CV looks polished and well-structured.

5. Highlight relevant skills:

Avoid using a one-size-fits-all approach when applying for different jobs. Each position has specific criteria, so tailor your CV to highlight the skills, qualifications, and experiences directly relevant to the job you’re applying for. By customizing your CV, you demonstrate your understanding of the role and showcase how your unique abilities align with the employer’s needs. This targeted approach increases your chances of standing out from other candidates and emphasizes your suitability for the specific position.

Ads

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});

End of ads

6. Be honest:

Maintaining honesty and integrity on your CV is crucial. It’s important to avoid misrepresenting information or exaggerating your skills and accomplishments. Employers appreciate transparency and authenticity. Instead of embellishing your qualifications, focus on presenting your genuine abilities and experiences. Be confident in what you genuinely have to offer, and let your qualifications speak for themselves. By being honest, you build trust and establish a solid foundation for potential professional relationships.

7. Consider length and experience:

A well-structured CV should generally be no longer than two pages. However, it’s important to note that the length may vary depending on the specific field or industry you’re applying to. In some cases, such as academia or research positions, longer CVs that include detailed publications, presentations, or research projects may be acceptable.

While it’s important to showcase your work history and educational background, prioritize more recent experiences when writing your resume. Place emphasis on the roles, achievements, and skills that are most relevant to the position you are applying for. This approach allows employers to focus on the most recent and applicable information, enabling them to assess your suitability for the job more efficiently. If you have job experiences that are over 15 years old and not directly relevant to your current career objectives, it’s generally advisable to exclude them from your CV.

8. Demonstrate results with numbers:

When describing your previous work experience, consider using numbers to demonstrate your results and achievements. Quantifying your accomplishments adds a tangible and measurable element to your CV. For example, instead of simply stating that you “improved sales,” you can specify that you “increased sales by 20% within six months.” This approach provides concrete evidence of your impact and helps the recruiter understand the scope and significance of your contributions in previous roles. By using numbers strategically, you can effectively showcase your abilities and make a stronger impression on potential employers.

9. Carefully proofread and edit your document

Before submitting your resume, it’s crucial to thoroughly proofread and edit it. Going through several rounds of proofreading helps catch any spelling or grammar errors that could negatively impact your chances of securing an interview. Utilize various proofreading programs and tools available online, and consider seeking assistance from a third party, such as a friend or colleague, to review your CV from an employer’s perspective. Their fresh input can help identify areas for correction and improvement, ensuring your CV is error-free and professionally presented.

To summarize

By adhering to these guidelines, you can create an effective and well-crafted CV. Remember to use a professional font, incorporate active verbs, include relevant information, choose proper margins, carefully proofread your document, highlight relevant skills, demonstrate results with numbers, be honest, and consider the length and relevance of your experiences. A strong and tailored CV increases your chances of grabbing the attention of potential employers and securing opportunities for professional advancement.

FETTAHI Career Services

Looking for your next career move, our award-winning writers can help craft your CV, cover letter and LinkedIn profile to the most modern style using the latest techniques so you resume is 100% compliant and ready to leave a lasting impression to the recruiter. Click below to see details and get a free quote

Click Here