How to make your CV stand out

Making your CV stand out is essential in increasing your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. Here are some tips to help you create an outstanding CV:

1. Start with a compelling summary or objective: Begin your CV with a concise and attention-grabbing summary or objective statement that highlights your key skills, experiences, and career goals. Make it clear and impactful.
2. Tailor your CV to the job description: Customise your CV for each job application by aligning it with the specific requirements and qualifications mentioned in the job description. Highlight relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that are most applicable to the position you’re applying for.
3. Use a clean and professional design: Opt for a clean and well-structured CV layout using Word, that is easy to read. Use appropriate headings, bullet points, and white space to organize your information. Choose a professional font like Ariel or Calibri and keep the formatting consistent throughout.
4. Showcase your achievements: Instead of simply listing your job responsibilities, emphasize your accomplishments and results. Quantify your achievements whenever possible by using numbers, percentages, or specific examples to demonstrate the impact you made in previous roles.
5. Include a diverse skill set: Highlight a wide range of skills that are relevant to the position you’re applying for. Include both hard skills (technical abilities, software proficiency) and soft skills (communication, teamwork, leadership) to show your versatility and adaptability.
6. Include relevant certifications and training: If you have obtained certifications or completed relevant training programs, include them on your CV. This demonstrates your commitment to professional development and can set you apart from other candidates.
7. Add a personal touch: While maintaining professionalism, don’t be afraid to showcase your personality and unique interests. You can do this in the hobbies or interests’ section or by mentioning any volunteer work or extracurricular activities that are relevant and highlight transferable skills.
8. Proofread and edit: Ensure your CV is error-free by thoroughly proofreading it. Check for grammar and spelling mistakes, typos, and inconsistencies. Ask someone else to review it as well, as a fresh pair of eyes can often catch errors that you might miss.
9. Create an online presence: In addition to your CV, create a professional online presence by having an updated LinkedIn profile and a personal website or portfolio if relevant. Include links to these platforms on your CV to provide employers with more information about you.

Remember, the goal is to showcase your unique qualifications, achievements, and experiences in a way that makes you stand out from the competition. Tailoring your CV to each job application and highlighting your key strengths will greatly increase your chances of getting noticed by employers. If you would like to receive a CV writing template in Word, please email laura.smith@catchgroup.com