Want to make sure you don't make common mistakes? We've made an easy guide for you to enhance your CV.
Let’s face it, nobody likes to update their CV. It involves a great deal of work to get to that final version that you’re confident and proud of.
When coaching our students during the job hunting phase at Hyrise Academy, we’ve identified the 5 most common mistakes and important tips we share with our students to make sure they create an effective CV's.
Check them out👇
1. Make your contact details prominent and clear
Your contact details are your call to action (CTA). They should be written at the top of your CV, stand out and be clear to read. Make sure to include your phone number, email address and LinkedIn/Xing profile. Always double check that the contact details are updated and correct, and that any links work.
2. Tailor your CV to each role
This is probably the single most important tip we can share with you.
You should adapt your CV every time you apply for a role
Read up on the job description, and make sure your CV reflects exactly the keywords and competencies they are specifically searching for
Make sure you have an about me section which outlines your background, goal and competencies, and adapt it to each role. It should concisely tell the prospective employer what kind of a person you are, as well as the attributes and qualities that you possess and how they are relevant to the role.
3. Only rate languages, not your skills
Make sure to rate your languages using a scale. Ideally an international one like the CEFR.
When it comes to skills, do the opposite! No need to rate them, as it can be completely subjective. There is no clear way to rate yourself against others, and you may over or under sell yourself. It is better to just state your skills.
4. Everything should fit on one page
- Really? One page?
- Yes, one page!
The recruiter will take on average 30 to 60 seconds to look over your CV. Therefore, it is important to make sure your CV is easy to read and states the information clearly. Having anything longer than one page is a killer.
Use bullet points to list your experiences and quantify your accomplishments and responsibilities, and make sure your curriculum is easy to read and pleasant to the eye.
5. Have someone to proofread it
Seems simple, but it can make a world of difference. After working so much on your CV, it's easy for you to miss typos and important details. Make sure you apply the four eye principle, and have a friend or colleague proofread it before you send it.
Simple mistakes can make or break your application. Make sure your links work, there are no spelling mistakes, and remember: the file should be sent as a PDF.
Want to see an example of what a great CV looks like? Here is one for one of our favourite characters... Kung Fu Panda! 🐼👇
Simple, but effective! Follow these tips to craft a kick-ass CV that helps you succeed in getting your dream job. 🚀
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