Job searches are hard, and it can be disheartening when you don’t hear back from a potential employer.
Luckily, there are things you can do to improve your chances of success and taking another look at your CV is an important, but frequently neglected step. From streamlining the look of your resume, to developing new skills that you can include on there, these changes can have a positive impact on your future.
Recruiters have so many CVs to look through that it can be hard to stand out, but with a few improvements, and a little updating, you can set yourself apart from your peers.
- Reformat
Reformatting your CV with recruiters in mind is essential if you’re looking to get their attention.
On average, recruiters only spend an average of 6-8 seconds looking at your CV, so you want to make sure that it’s as easy as possible for them to see that you’re the right person for the job.
Your information needs to be clear and concise, listing your skills and accomplishments in a way that is easy for them to read in a hurry.
- Keep it Relevant
Similarly, due to the limited time many recruiters have to read each resume, you want to ensure that all the information is relevant.
Never send in a CV that you haven’t taken the time to edit first. Editing is essential for cutting out the waffle. Ask yourself, ‘is this information about me relevant to the role I am applying for?’ If the answer is no, then get rid of it.
- Improve Your Education
While perhaps more of a long-term strategy, advancing your education is a great way to set yourself apart from your peers.
Returning to university is difficult for many of us, especially if you already have the commitment of a career and a family. However, with a distance learning course, such as those provided by Anglia Ruskin University, you can study you can study on a schedule that suits your individual needs.
- Do Your Keyword Research
Keyword research is often a phrase associated with the world of digital marketing, but it’s becoming increasingly popular in careers advice too – after all, what is a CV if not a method of marketing yourself?
Many larger companies save time by putting CVs through a software that flags any relevant keywords in order to narrow down potential candidates.
Before submitting your CV, have another read of the job description and select a few keywords that are particularly relevant to the position and include them in your CV.
- Upskill
Demonstrating a wide skillset will not only make you an asset to any company, but it can benefit your career too. For example, studies show employees who speak a second language tend to earn around 10% more a year.
By taking time to improve your skills, you’ll have more evidence to include on your CV to show recruiters that you’re the right choice for the role.
Have you had success with the job hunt? Share your tips in the comments below!
