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5 CV mistakes you’re making
Each January, a huge number of people decide that it’s time for a new job. And, unlike many of our New Years resolutions, it’s a big decision that we really want to make work. Writing your CV can seem like the hardest part of that process, and knowing how to correctly portray yourself before potential employers have even met you, can be rather daunting.
With that in mind, we asked Fish4Jobs for their top tips on making sure your CV ‘does the job’:
Job hunting is a job in itself
Focus on the key elements to kick start your job hunt. Some of you will know exactly what you want to do and that’s great. But for most people, whether you’re just starting your career, returning to work or looking to switch careers, you’re probably wondering: what helps my CV stand out?
Sell yourself on paper
Your CV helps get the right recruiters to come to you. There are thousands of recruitment agencies across the UK, so how do you make sure you’re connecting with the right ones? Far easier to put yourself out there and let the right ones come to you.
Recruiters use CV databases like the Fish4jobs CV database to source candidates. It’s the most important document of your jobs search. How do you sell yourself on 2 pages of A4?
There’s a wealth of advice on CVs out there. We’ve pulled together a list of the top do’s and don’ts based on feedback from recruiters and employers:
CV mistake #1 – typos
This is the number one complaint of employers and recruiters. Don’t stand out for the wrong reasons! Get someone else to check it as we’re often blind to our own mistakes.
CV mistake #2 – bad layout
Two pages (two sides of A4) is the expected amount. There are some exceptions but generally speaking there’s no reason it should be longer. If you’ve had a long career consider trimming out the non-relevant roles.
CV mistake #3 – no personal statement
The paragraph that introduces and summarises you as an employee sets the tone and helps recruiters cut right to what makes you tick. The majority of candidates don’t include one so it sets you apart for the right reason. Try to stick to three ideas: who you are; what you bring to a role; and what job you want.
CV mistake #4 – too personal
You don’t need to give away all your personal details on your CV, and doing so can leave you open to illegal discrimination. Things to avoid include date of birth, marital status, national insurance number and certainly no bank details.
CV mistake #5 – only having one CV
A lot of people stick to having one CV for every job they apply for. This can have the effect of making you look like “jack of all trades, master of none”. Instead, take your starting CV and create a copy for each application. Emphasise the features of your CV that correlate with the job description you’re applying for, and you will look like the perfect candidate. Don’t make a recruiter hunt for your matching skills, make it easy for them!
It can take a while to get a new job, particularly if you’re looking for a very specific role or small search area. Stay positive!
If you need help crafting the perfect CV, preparing a personal statement or composing a cover letter, Fish4jobs Career Advice will give you all the help you need.
Fish4jobs has over 2,000 jobs in Bristol, from Accountancy to Training, from Admin to Sales, you’re bound to bag your dream role. Which role will make you #DoTheFish?