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Sometimes recruiters and HR managers only have a limited amount of time to scan or read CVs, making a well-written CV indispensable if you want to progress to the interview stage of the process. Michael Page provides you with a list of 9 things that potential employers look for in a CV.
CVs that address the specific job
Rather than sending out generic CVs that are sure to be discarded, research the particular job and tailor your CV to address the specific needs and responsibilities associated with the position.
Relevant experience
HR managers will look through your professional and educational experience searching for aspects of your background that are relevant to the industry and position. Be sure to include information that highlights your experience in the specific field.
Qualifications and skills
Be sure to include any and all qualifications and skills gained from previous jobs or other sources that you can utilise in your future position. This can also include internships, hobbies, and seminars attended in a private capacity.
Successes and achievements
One of the best ways to draw the HR manager's attention to you is to talk about your previous successes and achievements in related jobs and positions. This gives the manager a better idea of what the company can expect from you in the future.
Education
Every well-written CV highlights your relevant education, particularly when said education experience is recent. If you have taken courses or attended seminars since finishing university, be sure to include information about them in addition to your university courses and degrees.
Easy to read
No matter how qualified you are for a position, HR managers will not read your entire CV if it is difficult to get through. Make use of bullet points in lieu of long sentences when possible and choose a layout and font that is easy on the eyes.
Make sure you do not have any inconsistencies
Avoid gaps in your CV and list your experiences in chronological order. Be sure that there are no inconsistencies in your descriptions of previous responsibilities and achievements.
Relevant language
Your choice of words and style should be consistent with the particular industry. Reading over the job description will give you a better idea of the sort of language you should use in your CV.
Common file format
If submitting your CV electronically, make sure you use a file format that can be opened with standard programs, as no HR manager will take the time to download and install a new program just for your CV. Contact our Michael Page consultants for more helpful information about writing your CV.
