Top 7 Ways To Improve Your CV While Employed

I’m sure by now you can confess that the job market is very competitive, based on the number of times you have applied for a job, with no response. In fact, the competition out here is cut throat.

The first reason is attributed to the fact that the internet has made it easier for us to access hundreds of available jobs, but on the down side, it has made more and more people aware of these job openings.

This goes without saying that your CV must stand out from the hundreds of applicants applying for the same job as you. And to even give you a better chance of getting your dream job, you will discover that what is currently on your CV is not the only thing that counts.

You must have something extra.

So, how then do you improve your CV while you are still employed, in order to land your dream job and beat the rest of the candidates?

What to do to improve your CV while you are still employed

1.Add skills

Have you ever come across a job that you really wanted to get, but you felt like you didn’t have all the qualifications? Maybe they required someone with a CPA and you only had a Diploma in Accounting? This is a sign that you should supplement your skills.

Your schedule at work might be crazy and you hardly have any time for yourself, but I believe in sacrifice.

What can you sacrifice from your time to add a skill that will take you to the next level of your career? Is it sacrificing your night outs with your friends on the weekend or sacrificing the time you spend on Facebook and watching movies?

I guarantee you that adding a skill is a very good investment that will improve your CV and ultimately help you to land your dream job.

2. Volunteer

I am sure you have heard this said a lot, that volunteering will help in your career growth. You see, the last thing you want an employer to think is that you don’t have a life outside your 8-5 job.

I mentioned in this post how I volunteered with two start-up companies. The amount of hands on experience you will get when you volunteer is invaluable.

Also, volunteer in an area you are passionate about, that is closely related to your career.

The experience will be useful in your CV.

Read Also >>> Understanding The Hidden Job Market

3. Network

No man is an island. Golden opportunities are hidden amongst your friends, family, members of a professional body, internet forums and groups.

Join a professional body like PRSK for Public Relations Professionals or Media Council of Kenya for Media Practitioners.

There are so many professional bodies you can join and make friends who will be of value to you when looking for a job.

Not to mention that you can participate in the activities of these groups and include such experience on your CV.

Also, join social media platforms such as LinkedIn, which is dedicated to helping working professionals’ makes connections, with companies and jobs.

4. Ask for projects at work

Try to find opportunities in other departments where you can make a contribution. You will not only feel good about being involved in another department, but you will also be widening your skill set by learning about another area of the company.

Assist your colleague in HR to shortlist candidates, help out your admin colleague with writing reports.

Aim to do extra, for the sake of improving your CV while you are still working.

5. Line up solid references

It’s not too early to start preparing for the next step of your career. Before you can start sending out your CV, ask two or three people if they will be a reference for you, to prepare them for any future calls.

Related Article >>> CV Writing Tips: 5 Ways of Indicating an Employment Gap on Your CV

6. Hire a Professional CV writer

Last, but definitely not least, invest in a well written CV. I shared in this post , the many CV writing mistakes most candidates make, and you will agree with me that you have been a victim of some of those mistakes.

Get a professionally written CV. It is one of the best investments you will make for your career.

In summary, look for simple ways to improve your skill set and knowledge base to help your CV grow. It won’t be long until you are on your way to a new and better job. Learn more about our CV Writing Services. 

Susan is a Communications Officer at Career Point Kenya. For questions or comments, Email: susan@www.careerpointkenya.co.ke