Achieving this step isn’t always that easy. Securing a job is dependent upon the power of
your CV.
Most job hunters let themselves down when it comes to CVs. They use woolly words such
as ‘involved with’, they list their duties, which anyone can do, and they fail to talk about how
they can make a difference to the organisation. In short, they don’t invest in their CV. And if
you were the recruiter, what would this tell you about the candidate?
In addition, candidates use the same format, style and tone of CV for years. While it may
have won them an interview a few years ago, it is no longer being as effective in the current
job market.
The crucial test is what employers think about your CV. If you are not selected for an inter-
view on the basis of your CV, it is tempting to make up your own explanations. Do you put
it down to your age, marital status, education, work experience, job title, salary, race, sex
or current company? Are these the real reasons? Probably not. It is true that these factors
may play a part but the answer is usually much deeper than this.
Anyone, whatever their ability, can project themselves in a positive honest way that will win
them work. The secret is knowing how to sell yourself and convince the employer that you
should be invited to attend an interview.
A quick CV check list
Your CV needs to:
- Be targeted towards the job in question. Tailor the CV to the position on offer.
Throw out a general all-purpose CV. - Show you are capable of doing the job. Demonstrate briefly and quickly your
skills and capabilities. The employer doesn’t want to plough through reams of
paper in order to answer the question ‘can this person do the job?’ - Show you have a personality. Convey what sort of person you are.
- Reflect your attitude. Keep the tone on a straightforward, positive and businesslike
level - Be brief and to the point - only include relevant information. Your spouse’s name
does not reflect your ability to do the job. Keep personal details to a minimum.
Never express in ten words what can be said in four. - Demonstrate that you believe in yourself. Advertise yourself -- the whole person
-- rather than giving lots of long and boring lists of information.