Do you regularly come across a great job opportunity that you are perfect for, only to find you get passed over when you send in an application? Chances are, it might be because you submitted a broad CV that failed to show your true potential to the recruiter. If you want to have the greatest chance of landing an interview for the jobs you apply for, having a resume that is specifically tailored to each vacancy is a must.
Don’t know where to start? Below are our top tips to creating a CV that always hits the mark. Make sure you look closely at the requirements of the job and identify what will set the successful candidate apart.
1. Do your research
What are you really focussing on when you read a job ad – the pay, employee perks or prime office location? When it comes to writing a truly impactful CV, it’s the requirements that should always be your main interest. However, simply skimming over the ad to check you meet the criteria isn’t enough. You need to delve deeper into the key qualities and really do your research into what will set the successful candidate apart. It’s a good idea to find out more about the company, as well as look into the requirements of roles similar to the one you’re applying for. By gathering as much information as you can, you’ll be much better equipped to create a CV that answers the ad directly.
2. Be selective
Another important aspect of tailoring your CV is the information you put into it. It’s vital you highlight the skills and experience that specifically relate to the vacancy, and ensure you address the requirements fully. This is not just about what you include, but also the way you structure the resume. For instance, while listing your work history chronologically from your most recent role is a good strategy in general, don’t treat this as an overarching rule. Sometimes it might be better to list the most relevant experience to the specific job first, as this will help it stand out to the reader.
3. Cut it down
Lastly, sometimes less can be more for a perfectly-tailored CV. It’s important not to crowd your best experience and achievements with information that doesn’t particularly correlate with the vacancy criteria, as this will make it harder for the recruiter to get a clear sense of your fit for the role. Instead, ensure your suitability really hits home by leaving out any unnecessary or outdated information that would overcrowd an otherwise great resume.
To download recruiter designed resume templates, click here.
