Top tips for writing a CV or résumé
The importance of first impressions cannot be overstated. When you first meet someone, you assess them in a matter of seconds. Are they wellorganized, active, and reliable? Employers who read your CV are meeting you for the first time. They ponder the same questions about you and make a choice in a matter of seconds. That is why it is critical to make a good first impression with your CV.
Make your CV easy to read: According to research, one thing employers look for in a CV is readability. You’re exhibiting a vital transferable skill right away by making yours easy to read: the ability to deliver information in a cohesive, appealing manner. A quick overview of where you are now and where you want to go, short words and paragraphs, clear headings for the usual components of the CV, effective use of bullet points, and appropriate typefaces are all ways to make your CV easy to read.
Use words that employers want to hear: Your major points regarding your experience and talents must correspond to the job requirements as published. Mirror the advert’s key conditions, but refrain from literally replicating what the job ad says. Determine the appropriate ‘tone of voice. ‘ You don’t have to be extremely formal, but neither should you be too casual. Also, avoid using language that isn’t necessary.
Be brief but informative: A CV should be two pages in length (on separate sheets). If you submit more than that, you are unlikely to get a response for most jobs. Your CV may be longer if you have more than 10 years of job experience. Your task is to summarize as much of your experience, work history, skills, and talents as possible. Every word you use must be significant and serve a purpose.
Use a fine-tooth comb to go through your CV: Employers will instantly reject a CV that has spelling or grammatical errors. This is a fact, not a legend created by professors and lecturers. That implies you must ensure that your CV is completely free of typos and has proper grammar. Also, spellchecks aren’t always reliable. Instead of ‘their responsibilities,’ they accept phrases like ‘their responsibilities entail.’