We’re all guilty of underestimating the importance of the CV. Hey, some of us may even still be adapting that same Word doc we first created back when we left school, university or college.
According to a recently interviewed director of a leading finance and accounting recruitment firm, 80% of the CVs they receive are either weak or need improvement. So, putting it bluntly, if we want to bag an interview, we need to up our game.
"It’s not just about spelling and grammar” says Matt Craven, founder of The CV & Interview Advisors.
The art of creating a great CV has become much more sophisticated, with a knowledge of marketing techniques, psychology and global recruitment best practice needed to really master the topic.
It might sound overwhelming – so let’s start with the basics. Here are five golden rules to play by when it comes to writing your CV.
Don’t: focus on the past
A CV isn’t a simple list of jobs you’ve done in the past. Think of it as an evidence-based document that explains why you’re so perfect for the job. “Don’t merely describe the duties and responsibilities of your previous jobs,” says Matt. “Focus on where you are heading in your career and how you can add value to a future employer.”
