Writing a Compelling CV: Resume That Stands Out

0 %
of recruiters will hire candidates with well-formatted CVs
0 %
of recruiters however spend more than 1 minute reviewing a resume on the first viewing - Glassdoor

Learn the nuts and bolts of getting started

Did you know you can make a lasting impression on a recruiter in just 3 seconds? Present yourself effectively with a CV that stands out.

A CV, short for curriculum vitae, Latin for “course of life,” is a detailed account of your professional experience and academic background. It is vital to a job application because recruiters scan it for specific job-relevant content.

Steps to Crafting a Standout CV:

1. Seek Expert Guidance: Start by understanding the key elements of a compelling resume with expert advice.

2. Showcase Your Skills: Highlight your skills, achievements, and experience effectively to catch the attention of employers.

3. Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV for specific roles by aligning it with the job requirements and industry standards.

4. Use Impactful Language: Choose powerful and concise language that conveys your qualifications and value.

5. Present with Confidence: Organize your CV in a clear, professional format that reflects your strengths and boosts your chances.

6. Review and Revise: Ensure your CV not only highlights your best qualities but also opens doors to your dream job.

Build-Up Tips

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• Be consistent in format and content
• Make it easy to read and follow, balancing white space
• Use consistent spacing, bold, and capitalization for emphasis
• List headings (such as experience) in order of importance
• Within headings, list information in reverse chronological order (most recent first)
• Avoid information gaps, such as a missing summer
• Be sure that your formatting translated properly if converted to a pdf

• Use personal pronouns (such as I)

• Abbreviate

• Use a narrative style

• Number or letter categories

• Use slang or colloquialisms

• Include a picture

• Include age or sex

• List references

• Start each line with a date

• Specific rather than general
• Active rather than passive
• Written to express, not impress
• Articulate rather than “flowery”
• Fact-based (quantify and qualify)
• Written for people who scan quickly

  • Spelling and grammar errors
  • Missing email and phone information
  • Using passive language instead of “action” words
  • Not well organized, concise, or easy to skim
  • Not tailored to the position or industry