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The Secret to a good CV

by Zarvesha Rasool

22/01/25

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Your CV is often the first impression you make on a potential employer, so getting it right can be the key to setting yourself apart from the competition. The secret to an impactful CV lies in achieving the right balance: clearly presenting your skills and experience while keeping things professional, tailored, and free from unnecessary distractions.

Start with the basics. A clean, well-organised layout is essential. Use consistent fonts, proper spacing, and clear section headings to make your CV easy to navigate. Simplicity often works best; your CV should be easy to scan at a glance. Avoid clutter, and make sure your most relevant information stands out. Equally, proofreading is crucial. Even the smallest grammar or spelling mistake can detract from your professional image, so take the time to double-check your work. Don’t forget to ensure your contact details are up to date so you are easy to reach.

To make a strong impression, your CV must be tailored to each role you apply for. Employers want to see how your specific skills, experience, and achievements align with the job description. Start with a concise professional summary – a few lines that highlight your career path, key accomplishments, and ambitions, while subtly weaving in keywords from the job listing to demonstrate your understanding of the role.

When detailing your work experience, always include the basics: the company name, your job title, and the dates you were employed. To capture your experience effectively, divide each position into two sections: ‘Key Responsibilities’ and ‘Key Achievements’.

Keep your responsibilities clear and focused on the scope and scale of your role. For example, mention team sizes, budgets managed, or projects led. In the achievements section, use action-driven language and quantify your successes with metrics. Whether it’s cost savings, performance improvements, or growth figures, numbers provide concrete evidence of your impact and make your contributions more compelling.

Including your qualifications and certifications is important, especially those directly relevant to the job you’re applying for. If you're unsure, refer back to the job description or reach out to a recruitment consultant to confirm which qualifications are most important for the role.

To reduce unconscious bias in the hiring process, it's a good idea to avoid personal details such as your photo, age, marital status, or religious beliefs unless explicitly requested. Focus on showcasing your skills, experience, and achievements without commenting on any personal information.

Your CV is a reflection of your professional journey – carefully crafted, well-tailored, and focused on the value you bring. By paying attention to detail and adopting the right approach, you can ensure your CV stands out, demonstrating the impact you make and opening the door to your next big opportunity.

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