If securing a new job is on your list of 2018 New Year’s Resolutions, it’s worthwhile giving your CV some love before you start applying for those new roles. Here are our top 5 tips.
1. This is a selfie-free zone
There is a time and place for everything, and that includes the past 50 selfies you took in front of the mirror yesterday – they don’t belong in your CV! You want to give your future employer a professional perspective of yourself, so please – for everyone’s sake, leave out the selfies. If it’s relevant to your profession and you choose to include a photo of yourself, whilst it doesn’t have to be Time magazine quality, make sure it is clear and with a plain background.
2. Highlight your achievements but don’t stretch the truth
You might think adding a few embellishments here and there is harmless, but here’s the thing – potential employers can spot a lie from a mile away. They are likely to be experts in their field and know the ins and out of their industry. They are well-networked and strategic, and once they pick up on your resume porky pies, it’s not going to do you any favours. Keep it real, people.
3. Everybody loves structure
Whilst it is worthwhile to bring some colour and life to your CV (we all know how many are sent and reviewed everyday!) you still need structure and clarity. The last thing your future employer wants is to be searching for a needle in a haystack. Ensure everything you include is relevant to the specific job you are applying for, and that your CV flows well.
4. Spell-check: use it.
This isn’t a text you’re sending to your best friend, it’s part of your job application – it’s serious. Double and triple check the document for any grammatical or spelling errors. It’s not a good look when your employer discovers you don’t know the difference between there and their.
5. Clean up your socials
Fact: everyone stalks everyone. Whatever profiles you’re using, and particularly your LinkedIn, ensure they are up to date. Employers do know their staff have a life (at least, most should), but it’s better safe than sorry – double check you’re happy with everything that is public on your platforms, or adjust your settings to private. A photo of your 2005 schoolies trip: delete.
Happy job-hunting, everyone!
