Unfortunately due to current events it may be essential for you to get your CV up to date. Even more so, it is important to make yourself stand out so you can rise above the rest. Therefore, before you begin looking for suitable positions, it is important to optimise your CV.

Statistics show that recruiters take an average of 6 seconds to look over your CV before evaluating that they want to proceed. Making sure your top skills and experience shines is key to grabbing the eye of your next potential employer.

Formatting Your Content

When updating a CV, many candidates focus too much on their current experience rather than ensuring the rest of the document is still fit for purpose. The last thing you need is too much unnecessary information reducing the chances of your CV being selected. It is recommended to keep the length of it to 1 or 2 pages.

By providing information to recruiters that is clear and concise it will help improve your chances of being selected. Only provide details for the last 10 years’ worth of experience, anything longer is more than likely not relevant and is either picked up in your skill set from recent roles or not essential.

A CV is a sales pitch, showing all that you can bring to the table. Don’t be afraid to really put yourself forward by highlighting what you excel at. Recruiters like confidence, so let it shine throughout your profile.

In addition to a well worded CV, the layout can be just as crucial. A bad design will cause it to be discarded straight away. Avoid using any symbols or graphics and stick to a basic font only. The layout should consist of 3 main sections - Summary, Experience, and Education.

Think Of Real Examples That Link To Your CV

Ensure all skills and experience come with real examples when questioned. During an interview the hiring manager will pick up on different parts of your CV and get you to discuss them. By knowing how to elaborate when questioned, will allow for a much smoother experience during the interview.

Highlighting Relevant Content

Make sure to provide the correct experience and skills recruiters want to see for the role they are looking to fill. Updating your profile will details, skills, and trends relating to the industry could set you above the others. For example, if you’ve recently completed a training course that covers many topics of a certain role, this should be added.