1) Use a template.
You can pick up a free CV template from many large job search websites and in Word. Using a template will ensure you include all the necessary information and you won’t have to struggle with formatting and layout because it will have been done for you.
2) Keep your CV up to date.
An old CV is unprofessional so ensure yours includes everything right up to the present day. New skill? New achievement? New job title? Add it to your CV immediately. Don’t wait until you’re job-hunting – make a note of it now before you forget!
3) Check your CV’s accuracy.
When I say check, I mean every single word! This should include job description text, salaries, dates, and previous employers’ company names. Spelling and grammatical mistakes are incredibly common but could lead to an immediate rejection. If writing isn’t your forte ask a friend (or your mum) to proof-read.
4) Tailor your CV.
Read the job description carefully then slightly ‘tweak’ your CV content accordingly. Don’t lie - concentrate on the skills, achievements and personal qualities your target employer is looking for. Always make you application relevant to the job you’re applying for and throw that generic CV in the bin!
5) Keep your CV short and relevant.
Employers won’t want to read a book about you - stick to two pages, maximum. What’s important is your job history and relevant skills so stick to that and ditch those GCSE grades from 15 years ago!
©Andrea Shavick 2020
Andrea is the author of 7 books on job-hunting and psychometric tests including Practice Psychometric Tests, Passing Psychometric tests, Psychometric Tests for Graduates and Management Level Psychometric and Assessment Tests, all available at Amazon and other good bookshops. www.shavick.com