WRITING A CV

RESPECTABLE CV OPEN DOOR TO SUCCESS

A critical aspect of creating a CV that has a dynamic impact is writing a personal statement, sometimes called a profile or career summary that will enable the recruiter to quickly identify the strategic value you can add to their organization. Your CV should be a self-marketing document aimed at persuading the recruiter to want to interview you and your personal statement is critical parts of making this happen.
Many candidates struggle with writing the statement part of their CV but it doesn't necessarily have to be a difficult as you may think. A well written statement can be between 50 and 200 words, although it is important not to ramble. Remember you always have your cover letter to include interesting and engaging information which will act as the gateway to them then wanting to read your CV.

POSITION YOURSELF PROPERLY

Use your CV to position yourself by stating how you can help your prospective employer. How will they benefit by hiring you over the next person? Can you meet their requirements and help achieve their business goals? Use industry-specific words to describe your talents and match your skills to job requirements.

PRIORITIZE INFORMATION AND DRAW ATTENTION TO YOUR STRONG POINTS

The easiest way to emphasize your selling points is to put your best information first. If you are a new graduate, you would put training or education first, where it catches the reader’s attention. If you don’t have any formal qualifications, you would highlight your career and experience first and foremost. You want prospective employers to see your most valuable information at first glance. Bullet points are another great way to highlight your strong points; but don’t overdo it.

DON’T SAY IT. JUST SHOW IT

Avoid telling people that you are a “good communicator”, “excellent team player” or “self starter”. These phrases have become overused and border on being cliché. Instead, show how you have demonstrated these qualities in previous roles and include evidence. For example, you could write “As the state training manager, I developed a sales training program and trained over 500 staff. The result was a 40% increase in annual profits.” You’ll agree; that’s a much more powerful statement than “outstanding team manager”.