CV Advice

Your CV is more than just a document; it’s your personal marketing tool, showcasing your professional story to potential employers. Making it polished, relevant, and engaging can make all the difference in landing an interview. Here are our updated tips for creating a standout CV:

Presentation Matters

The way your CV is presented can determine whether a prospective employer takes a closer look at your application. Ensure it looks professional, with a clean, consistent layout that is easy to read. Use clear headings, bullet points, and white space to make key details stand out. Double-check all dates and formatting for consistency, and don’t forget to proofread carefully for any grammatical or spelling errors.

Highlight Your Achievements & Skills

Beyond simply listing your work experience, emphasise your key achievements. This turns a flat list into a compelling narrative about your impact and capabilities. Quantify your successes whenever possible (e.g., “Increased sales by 20%,” or “Managed a team of 10 staff”). This gives employers a clearer picture of your potential contributions. Remember, your CV is a selling tool — so don’t be shy about showcasing what makes you stand out.

Tailor Your CV to the Role

Every job is different, and your CV should reflect that. Carefully read through the job description and highlight the most critical skills and experiences they’re seeking. Tailor your CV to emphasise your relevant expertise and align it with the role’s requirements. This demonstrates to employers that you’ve done your homework and understand how you can add value to their team.

Optimal CV Format

  • Contact Information: Place your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable) at the top.
  • Professional Summary: A brief, positive, and concise overview of who you are as a professional, your key skills, and what you’re seeking in your next role.
  • Key Skills: List your core skills relevant to the job you’re applying for, particularly those mentioned in the job description.
  • Work Experience: Start with your most recent/current position and work backward. Include your job title, company name, dates of employment, and key responsibilities and achievements for each role.
  • Education & Training: List your academic qualifications and any relevant training or certifications.
  • Interests & Hobbies: Mentioning a few relevant hobbies or interests can help give employers a more well-rounded view of you. However, keep it brief and professional.

Adapt and Refine as Needed

Be prepared to tweak your CV for different applications. Tailoring your CV to fit the job requirements can significantly boost your chances of getting noticed. Highlight different aspects of your experience or skills to match what the employer is seeking.

By following these tips, you can create a CV that truly reflects your unique strengths and helps you stand out from the competition. Remember, your CV is your first impression — make it count!

If you have seen a role that has been advertised and would like more information, or you have a general enquiry, please contact our team of recruiters today. Alternatively, you can upload your CV directly to our recruitment team.