How to write a good CV
Posted on: 03/Oct/2015 11:19:58 AM
The first thing a prospective employer sees is your resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV). Writing a CV that keeps the reader engaged is not an uphill task. Here are a few tips on writing a good CV.
The CV should have a synopsis in the beginning. This could be a short introduction of who you are and what you want. But, too often, this synopsis is bland and boring reading. Your synopsis should tell the reader the kinds of roles you have performed (research, accounting, technology) and which industries or sectors you have worked in (healthcare, publishing, e-commerce). You are the hero of this resume. Think of how you would like a hero to be introduced without the melodrama.
All great books or papers have themes. Your CV should have one too. The major themes should be your skill set and experience that are relevant to the role you are applying for. One way to make your job easier is to first write down everything that you have done and pick only what is relevant to the application at hand. While doing this, don’t stray from the plot. Research shows that many recruiters lose interest after the headline. Again, keep your points relevant to the applied job, but don`t change your job titles just to match the criteria. You could, instead, summarize your role under each job title.
Choose your words well. This will encourage the recruiter to turn the page of your CV. But remember, he or she will have to turn the page only if there is a need to. In other words, don`t make your resume longer that in has to be. No one likes to read a long repetition of what can be said in just a few words. Write clearly and avoid unnecessary jargon and abbreviations. Use bullet points and stick to the point.
When you are writing your CV for the first time, let the words flow. Note down everything that comes in your mind. Now, edit it. Add accurate dates and titles. Do away with flowery language. Don’t forget to leave out anything, and don’t forget to remove what you don`t want.
Here are a few questions you can ask:
Is there anything missing?
Is there anything unnecessary?
Am I representing yourself well in the profile?
Are all the points relevant to the targeted role?
Can I improve the flow?
Can I increase or decrease the font?
Do my achievements stand out?
