Steps on how to write a professional CV
1. Choose the right format
Choosing the right format is crucial because it determines how your information is presented and how easily a potential employer can review your qualifications. The format should highlight your strengths and downplay any weaknesses. For instance, a chronological format is the most common format and emphasises career progression, while a functional format focuses on skills, making it suitable for those with gaps in their employment history. A combination format blends both approaches. The right format can help a recruiter quickly locate key information, enhancing your chances of making a positive first impression and being shortlisted for an interview.
2. Add your contact information
Having easily accessible contact information simplifies the process for potential employers to reach out to you. If your contact information is hard to find or missing, employers may move on to the next candidate rather than spend time searching. By clearly listing your phone number, city, email, and your LinkedIn profile at the top of your CV, you ensure that employers can quickly and conveniently contact you for an interview.
3. Include a professional summary
A compelling career summary at the start of your document is vital as it serves as an introduction to your professional self. It provides an overview of your skills, experiences, and achievements, effectively setting the tone for the rest of the document. This section can grab the attention of potential employers and encourage them to read further. A well-crafted career summary can effectively articulate your value proposition and how you can contribute to the company.
4. Showcase your work experience effectively
Effectively showcasing your work experience starts with listing your jobs in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent. For each role, provide a brief description of your responsibilities and, more importantly, your achievements. Use action verbs to describe your duties and quantify your achievements wherever possible to provide concrete evidence of your skills. Tailor this section to the job you're applying for by highlighting the most relevant experience and skills. This method not only demonstrates your qualifications but also shows your potential value to the company.
5. Include your education and relevant skills
The best way to highlight your education is to list your degrees in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent. Include the name of the institution, the degree obtained, and the date of graduation. For recent graduates, relevant coursework, academic achievements, and projects can also be highlighted.
As for skills, they should be relevant to the job you're applying for. They can be divided into hard skills (technical abilities like software knowledge) and soft skills (interpersonal skills like communication). Use a skills section to list them, and provide context for your skills by demonstrating how you've used them in your work experience. This tailored approach to presenting your education and skills makes it easy for employers to see your qualifications and how they align with the job requirements.
6. Consider what additional information you can inlcude
Adding additional information like projects, language skills, and certificates can enhance your CV by providing further evidence of your abilities.
For projects, include those that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Describe the project, your role, the skills you used, and the results achieved. This can demonstrate practical application of your skills. Language skills can be a great asset, especially for jobs that require communication with international clients or colleagues. List the languages you're proficient in and your level of proficiency (basic, conversational, fluent, native). Certificates should also be relevant to the job. Include the name of the certificate, the institution that issued it, and the date of completion. If it's a well-recognised certification in your field, it can significantly boost your credibility. These additional details can set you apart from other candidates, showcasing a wider range of skills and a commitment to continuous learning. Ensure all additional information adds value and relevance to your application.
7. Adding your references
Typically, it is no longer necessary to list references directly on your CV. Instead, it's more common to write "References available upon request" at the bottom, saving space for more important information and respects the privacy of your references.
Remember to notify your references each time you provide their contact information to a potential employer, so they can be prepared to give a strong, positive reference.
8. Tailor your CV to the job description
Tailoring your CV to the role you're applying for is crucial because it demonstrates to potential employers that you're a strong match for the job. This involves adjusting your content to align with the job description, including keywords and skills. Using specific keywords from the job description helps because many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes. These systems look for relevant keywords to determine if a candidate's CV matches the job requirements. Tailoring your skills is also essential. Highlight the skills mentioned in the job description, demonstrating not just that you possess these skills, but also how you've used them in your work experience. This customisation shows that you've taken the time to understand the role and the company's needs, and it makes it easier for hiring managers to see how your qualifications align with the job.
9. Don’t forget to proofread and edit before sending
Proofreading is vital because it ensures your document is free from errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, and formatting. Any mistakes can make a negative impression on potential employers, suggesting a lack of attention to detail, poor communication skills, or a lack of seriousness about the application. Errors can result in your application being dismissed, regardless of your qualifications or fit for the role. Proofreading also allows you to review the content for clarity and relevance. It's an opportunity to ensure that the information is accurate, concise, and tailored to the job description. So, not only does proofreading prevent potentially damaging errors, but it also helps to improve the overall quality and effectiveness.
