Does Your CV Answer These Crucial Questions?

When sending out your CV for applications it’s crucial to think about the employer receiving it. If you were the employer, would you hire yourself?

Your CV isn’t just a simple document that highlights your qualifications and achievements, think of it as your personal marketing pitch. Your CV should sell you. The employer should be convinced that you are the right candidate for the job and eventually invite you for your first interview.

The three questions your CV must answer;

Why are you interested in this job?

Were you applying just for the sake of it? Take time and think back to what it was about this job that made you want to apply in the first place, and why do you think you are such a good fit? Was there a specific part of the role that excited you? Does the company’s mission particularly resonate? Research the company and industry may help you articulate this.

Once you are clear on your reasons for applying, work on updating your personal statement and your cover letter. Look back at some of the research you’ve done, and include it in the CV. Demonstrating that you’ve made the effort to do your homework at this early stage will only be a positive thing in the employer’s mind.

What value will you bring to the company?

Employers spend a lot of time and resources during the hiring process, they don’t just want to hire any candidate but the right candidate. A great way to do this is by updating the employment history section of your CV. When doing so, ensure you focus on the value you added in each role, rather than simply listing what your duties were. This section of your CV shouldn’t read like a list of job descriptions, instead, it should tell the story of your unique strengths and accomplishments.

A good way to do this is to think about what your biggest standout achievement was for each role, no matter how big or small and focus in on that. Remember, the employer wants to know what you can do and needs to see concrete evidence for this.

How have you grown in your career?

After each professional experience listed on your CV, include a sentence or two that highlight your achievements and the best practices you’ve picked up. This shows the employer how you have grown during your professional journey as well as your capacity for lifelong learning and self-awareness. It also gives them confidence that you have potential and are able to handle the job well.

It all boils down to how you tailor your CV to suit the role. Is it convincing enough? Is it relevant to what the employer is looking for? Take time to structure your CV, don’t rush it.

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