how to write a better cv

Introduction

Writing a better CV is essential for standing out in today’s competitive job market. A well-crafted CV can open doors to interviews and ultimately, job offers. Here, we’ll explore practical steps to enhance your CV, ensuring it's ATS friendly and tailored for recruiters.

Understanding the Basics of a CV

Before diving into the writing process, it’s important to understand what a CV is and its significance. A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a comprehensive document that outlines your professional history, skills, and accomplishments. It serves as your personal marketing tool to potential employers.

Key Components of a CV

A strong CV typically includes:

Contact Information: Name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile.
Professional Summary: A brief overview of your experience and career goals.
Work Experience: Detailed information about your previous positions.
Education: Your academic credentials.
Skills: Relevant skills that match the job description.
Certifications and Awards: Any additional qualifications that enhance your profile.

Steps to Write a Better CV

1. Tailor Your CV to the Job

Each job you apply for may require a different focus in your CV. Tailoring means adjusting your CV to highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the specific job description.

Read the Job Description Carefully: Identify keywords and phrases that describe the skills and qualifications needed.
Match Your Experience: Align your work history and skills with what the employer is looking for.

2. Use a Professional Format

A clean, professional layout is crucial for first impressions. While creating your CV, consider the following formatting tips:

Consistent Font and Size: Use a professional font like Arial or Calibri in 10-12 point size.
Clear Headings: Use bold headings for each section to guide the reader.
Bullet Points: Use bullet points for easy reading and to highlight accomplishments.

3. Highlight Achievements, Not Just Duties

When listing your work experience, focus on your achievements rather than merely listing job duties. Use quantifiable metrics to demonstrate your impact.

Example: Instead of saying “Managed a team,” say “Led a team of 10, increasing productivity by 25% over six months.”

4. Keep It Concise

Your CV should ideally be one page, especially if you have less than 10 years of experience. Be concise and eliminate any unnecessary information.

Use Action Verbs: Start each bullet point with action verbs like “Achieved,” “Developed,” or “Implemented.”
Avoid Jargon: Keep language simple and professional.

5. Include Keywords for ATS

Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen CVs. To ensure your CV gets past these systems:

Incorporate Relevant Keywords: Use terms from the job description throughout your CV.
Simple Formatting: Avoid complex layouts that ATS may struggle to read.

6. Proofread and Edit

Spelling or grammatical errors can diminish your credibility. Always proofread your CV multiple times.

Read Aloud: This can help you catch mistakes you may have missed.
Get a Second Opinion: Having someone else review your CV can provide valuable feedback.

7. Create Your CV Website with cvuno

A unique way to present your CV is through a personal CV website. With cvuno, you can create a professional CV website in about 30 seconds, with synced downloadable PDFs. This allows for a modern presentation of your experience without the constraints of traditional templates.

See an example CV to get inspired!

Conclusion

Writing a better CV is not just about listing your experiences; it’s about presenting yourself in the best light possible. By tailoring your CV, using professional formatting, highlighting achievements, keeping it concise, incorporating keywords, proofreading, and leveraging tools like cvuno, you increase your chances of standing out to recruiters.

Call to Action

Ready to take your CV to the next level? Try cvuno today and see how easy it is to create a stunning personal CV website that will impress employers!