How to write a great CV - Blog by Search Recruitment

Looking for a job, yet not quite sure how to write a CV that will get noticed by employers? In this blog, we show you how to write a CV that will propel you to the front row of the interview queue, and more than likely land you the dream job.

How to write a CV that will get you the dream job

Knowing how to write a CV is an art which, if mastered correctly, will ultimately turn heads as you stand out from the rest. Let’s face it, many jobseekers are not sure how to write a CV, and more daunting still is the prospect of actually sending a CV only to be met with the sound of crickets. To avoid this from happening, read our guidelines on how to write a CV.

 

DON'T include irrelevant work experience on your CV

Yes, you might have been the ‘master of mixing cocktails’ at the pub you worked for during summer breaks from university study, but unless you are planning on redeeming that title, this is not how to write a CV. No hiring manager seeking a Legal Team Assistant will look twice at someone who can throw an intoxicating potion together. You should also avoid including a job on your CV if you only held the position for a short period of time, especially jobs you were let go from or didn't like.

 

DO elaborate on personal attributes and transferrable skills when writing your CV

Although your past work experience may not initially appear to be directly relevant to the job you’re applying for, it’s important to note that it may showcase personal attributes and transferrable skills that are relevant to the role. As a general rule in CV writing, you should only include this experience if it really showcases additional skills that can translate to the position you're applying for. 

 

DON'T include blatant lies when you write your CV

In a recent study,  hiring managers were asked to share the most memorable CV mistakes they encountered, and blatant lies topped the list. One candidate claimed to be the former CEO of the company to which he was applying, another claimed to be a Nobel Prize winner, and one more claimed he attended a university that didn't exist. While these may seem like quirky and creative ways to write a CV, the end result may bite you in the end. 

 

DO remember hiring managers are more forgiving than you might think when writing a CV

According to the very same survey, about 42 percent of employers surveyed said they would consider a candidate who met only three out of five key qualifications for a specific role. Remember whenever you feel unsure how to write a CV, concentrate on the skills you can offer, rather than the skills you can’t.

 

DON'T include too much information on your CV

A TMI approach is not how you should write a CV, and you'll never get a call back after making hiring managers wade through large paragraphs of text. You should also avoid including salary information or reasons for leaving your current company, as this information may convey the wrong message. Your CV is intended to showcase your professional experience and skills, so the issue of salary and career transition should only be addressed in the interview. Most importantly, you should avoid including your current work contact information!

 

DO remember less is more when writing your CV

Recruiters are pushed for time, so they will usually spend a few seconds skimming your CV for must-have terms before they decide to commit to reading it fully. To pass this preliminary test, write your CV in an easily readable format, using a clean, simple font, clearly divided sections and short, sharp points. Providing a pleasant reading experience and reflecting the recruiter’s needs in your CV will hold their attention and create a perfect first impression.

Now that you know how to write a CV, let us help you get the job!

So you’ve learned how to write a CV that will get you noticed by employers, and the next step is finding a job. Whether you're looking to kick-start your career, or just simply contemplating a job switch, we recruit for a wide range of jobs across numerous industry sectors which you can apply for by simply clicking the button below. 

You can view all of the vacancies Search have on offer Search Consultancy.