Top CV Writing Tips: How to Stand Out to UK Employers
The Ultimate CV Preparation Guide for Jobseekers
Creating a standout CV is crucial for landing your dream job. A well-crafted CV not only highlights your skills and experiences but also makes a strong first impression on potential employers. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do and what not to do when preparing your CV.
What to Do When Preparing Your CV
1. Tailor Your CV to the Job
It is important to customise your CV for each job application. Do this by highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job description. Additionally, use keywords from the job posting to make your CV more appealing to both hiring managers and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
2. Use a Clear and Professional Format
Choose a clean, easy-to-read layout. Use headings, bullet points and consistent formatting to make your CV visually appealing. Stick to a professional font like Arial, Calibri or Times New Roman, and keep the font size between 10 and 12 points.
3. Start with a Strong Personal Statement
Begin your CV with a concise personal statement that summarises your career goals, key skills and what you can bring to the job role. This should be a brief paragraph - 2 to 3 sentences - that grabs the reader’s attention.
4. Highlight Your Achievements
Focus on your accomplishments rather than just listing your responsibilities. Where applicable, use quantifiable metrics (e.g., "Increased sales by 20%") to demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
5. Include Relevant Keywords
Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen CVs. Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description to ensure your CV passes through these systems. Keywords might include specific skills, qualifications or job titles.
6. Keep It Concise
Ideally, your CV should be no longer than two pages. Be selective about the information you include, focusing on the most relevant and recent experiences.
7. Proofread Thoroughly
Spelling and grammar mistakes can make a bad impression. Proofread your CV multiple times and make use of tools such as Microsoft Editor and Grammarly. Consider asking a friend or mentor to review it as well.
What Not to Do When Preparing Your CV
1. Don’t Use a One-Size-Fits-All Approach
Avoid sending the same CV for every job application. Tailoring your CV to each role shows that you’ve put in the effort and are genuinely interested in the position.
2. Don’t Include Irrelevant Information
Leave out personal details such as your age, marital status or religious beliefs unless specifically requested. In addition, avoid including outdated or irrelevant work experiences.
3. Don’t Overload Your CV with Jargon
While it’s important to include industry-specific terms, avoid overloading your CV with jargon that might not be understood by everyone. Keep your language clear and straightforward.
4. Don’t Use Unprofessional Email Addresses
Ensure your email address is professional, ideally consisting of your name (e.g., john.doe@email.com). Avoid using nicknames or unprofessional handles.
5. Don’t Forget to Include Contact Information
Make sure your contact information is up-to-date and easy to find. Include your phone number, email address and LinkedIn profile (if applicable).
6. Don’t Use Fancy Graphics or Fonts
While it’s important to make your CV visually appealing, avoid using overly complex designs, colours or fonts. These can distract from the content and may not be compatible with ATS.
7. Don’t Lie or Exaggerate
Honesty is crucial. Lying about your qualifications or experiences can lead to serious consequences, including losing the job offer or being dismissed later on.
Final Tips for a Winning CV
- Update Regularly: Keep your CV up-to-date with your latest experiences and skills.
- Use Action Verbs: Start bullet points with strong action verbs such as 'managed', 'developed' and 'implemented'.
- Include a Cover Letter: Whenever possible, submit a tailored cover letter along with your CV to provide additional context and showcase your enthusiasm for the role.
- Seek Feedback: Before sending out your CV, get feedback from trusted colleagues, mentors or career advisors, or friends and family.
Conclusion
Your CV is your first opportunity to make a strong impression on a potential employer. By following this Ultimate CV Preparation Guide, you can create a CV that stands out from the competition and increases your chances of landing an interview. Remember, a well-prepared CV is a key step in your job search journey.