A classic which is always relevant – building a great CV!

My role as a Talent Acquisition Specialist on the talent acquisition team in Morgan McKinley I advertise a lot of roles which results in a high volume of CV’s coming into my email inbox.

One thing I have noticed over the past few weeks is the standard of CV’s has been dropping. Not in terms of people’s backgrounds or work experience, but in terms of the CV lay out and how their information is being presented.

When you are looking for a new job, how you present yourself on your CV is hugely important; it is either the recruitment agency’s or future employer’s first impression of you. You need to make sure you are presenting yourself in the best light to ensure you are making the right first impression. Below are my top 5 tips for making your CV work for you!

• Spelling and grammar: With spell check so readily available there is no excuse for spelling mistakes on a CV! Spelling mistakes look awful, implying that you have rushed your CV and have very poor attention to detail. Equally grammar mistakes are very bad (I will admit I have been guilty of some in my time!). When in doubt – google!

• Contact details: Put your contact details at the start of your CV, make them easy to find. Name, email address and phone number are essential. Address is optional and there is no need to put your date of birth on your CV unless you want to.

• Bullet points: Bullet points are your friend on your CV. When outlining your experience in various positions do not write lengthy paragraphs describing everything you did. Highlight your key responsibilities and achievements in clear and easy to read bullet points.

• Lay out: Start with your contact details, next include a short profile about yourself if you wish, next education, then work experience, next include any skills you have that have not been mentioned (eg: languages, first aid courses), lastly your reference details, you can put down your referee details or say that referees are available.

• Tailor your CV: Think of the types of roles you are applying for, what skills and previous experience is required for these roles? If you have these skills or experience (or some of them) make sure that information is on your CV!

The above are to help you get started, if you think you may need more guidance please don’t hesitate to contact me or one of my Morgan McKinley colleagues for CV advice.