When you submit a CV to potential employers, they’ll likely have a checklist of things they’re looking for. This may include a particular qualification, years of experience or skill set.
But, even if you qualify on paper, an employer might still require answers to certain questions before moving forward.
Consider whether your CV answers the following.
1. How can your experience help the company?
Every candidate should demonstrate how their unique skills and experience can be beneficial to the company. CVs should be used to evaluate a candidate's abilities, qualifications and suitability for the job, more than simply a historical record. Give meaning and context to your past activities and experiences, presenting them as a clear pathway to the role you’re applying for.
2. What specific technology have you worked with?
It's important to be specific about the tools and platforms you've used in previous projects. Recruiters use key words to look for individuals with the right skills and experience, so including the relevant technology increases your chances of being found. As technology continues to develop and new platforms are introduced, it is essential to stay up to date with these changes and update your CV accordingly.
3. Can you quantify your success?
Applicants who can quantify their accomplishments will stand out far more than those who submit generic applications. Providing specific numbers to demonstrate how you improved processes or increased sales and customer engagement catches the attention of hiring managers. Include figures that demonstrate results related to the job you are applying for and, if possible, provide references to back up your claims.
4. What are you passionate about?
Your CV should give some indication of your passion and the ideas and goals that motivate you. By doing this, you give an insight of your values and vision. You might reference a love of fixing things, a competitive edge or problem solving. An understanding of what drives you will help hiring managers understand how you will fit into their team.
5. Why are you the right fit?
Companies are not out there to hire the “best” candidate but the “right” candidate. They want evidence that you understand the role and know what relevant skills and experience you possess to help you succeed. It shows that you are serious and have given considerable thought to the role and limits their risk of attrition.
6. Will you work to improve?
Consider how well your CV answers the question, ‘will you actively work to improve your skills while with the prospect company?’ Employers want to know that you are interested in developing personally and professionally throughout your career, so be sure to demonstrate this and include any additional certificates or qualifications you have earned.
7. Are you actually interested?
If you're sending the same template to every single employer, you don't want to work for any of them—you just want a job, and that’s a turnoff for most positions. CVs that stand out are tailored to the company and the specific role, address the requirements listed and demonstrates the value you're able to add. Whether or not a cover letter is requested, kicking off your application with a personal letter summarising how your skills and experience tie into the position will help catch the eye of hiring managers.
Our experienced consultants can help you create the perfect CV to help you stand out to potential employers. With expertise in data, digital and techrecruitment, they understand the qualities employers are looking for.
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