Candidate CV Tips
Short but sweet
First of all, keep it short. Your CV should be a maximum of two A4 pages long. Use bulletpoints and don’t put pointless information on your CV. Everything should add value.
Tailor your CV for every job
Whilst it’s a good idea to have a standard CV ready with all of your up-to-date experience on it, sending this out to every employer is not a good idea! You should tailor your CV to match the role you are currently applying for. Do this by reading the job description and showing off your skills that match it by putting in relevant experience/achievements.
Focus on your achievements
(not just your duties)
Whilst it’s important to list your work history, focus on your achievements and not just your duties. So your duty may have been to monitor health & safety, but you implemented anew rule onsite to do this–talk about that.
Be honest
You may be tempted to tell a lie to boost your chances of getting an interview, but you are bound to be caught out. Being caught in a lie is unprofessional, makes you appear untrustworthy and can be very awkward! Focus on what you are good at and how your behaviour impacted others – bigger doesn’t always mean better.
Proofread everything!
Mistakes on a CV are not a good sign. This is how you are presenting yourself to the best of your ability, so make sure there are no spelling mistakes! Once you have written your CV, take the time to read it over or get someone else to read it such as a friend or family member. Do remember to check details such as your name, address and phone numbers as these are common errors!
Don't leave gaps
In truth, gaps on a CV are suspicious. If you have had a career break for whatever reason, make sure you explain it. Even if you spent time developing skills, caring for children, volunteering etc., it’s important to explain your gap sand play to your strengths in doing so. For example if it was due to illness, you can say this but follow it up by saying you are much better and ready to take on a challenge. You can do this in the introduction of your CV or in a cover letter.
