There is a popular misconception that when creating an effective CV, content is what it is all about. I would like to explode that myth and here’s why
We all know, and goodness knows, I’ve said it many times, that a CV is a marketing tool for use in a very competitive marketplace. Every time a job vacancy is advertised there are likely to be around 200 applicants. Every one of these applicants will submit a CV for consideration. So pity the poor person who has to read them all!
To be realistic, it is simply not practical for a prospective employer to read every application right through. They will be forced to take short cuts. What will actually happen is that the CVs will be speed read in the first instance. Those that do not pass this initial test won’t even get a chance to be properly read – they will go straight in the bin.
So how can you make sure that your CV will overcome this first hurdle? The answer is simple – it all depends upon layout and presentation. Make the presentation attractive and appealing without too many long paragraphs of prose and it will be noticed.
Of course it would be foolish to say that content is not important, it is, but more important is the way you present the content. That will give you the edge over other candidates who may be as well, or even better qualified than you.
Remember that in a good CV ‘less is more’. How many people read all of the small print in a document? We all know the answer is ‘not many’ so don’t try to cram too much information into your CV.
In order to retain control of what the prospective employer actually reads, you need to prioritise the information. Pare it down to the essential facts. Make sure that you demonstrate your achievements and transferable skills. Remember that what employers want to know is what you can bring to their organisation.
Don’t be tempted to put in a section entitled “Personal Objectives” or write some kind of autobiography. They are not interested in you personally, or what you want, neither are they interested in how your last Company ran their business.
Put yourself in the position of the employers. Present them with a CV that is neat and to the point. They are bound to be weary from reading all those other CVs so help them to understand what you have to offer. Use clear language, avoid acronyms and jargon that they may not understand. Let your CV stand out from the crowd by it’s excellence and the clarity with which it delivers information – they will love you for it!
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