When applying for a new job, a candidate’s CV can be what initially gets them through the door when securing an interview.

But one thing job hunters worry about is how to make their CV stand out so that it is considered rather than thrown straight in the bin.

Creating a successful CV is simple once you know how to do so. It is a case of tailoring your skills and experience to the job you’re applying for.

One thing to note is that writing a CV always needs care. This is the case whether you are starting from scratch or updating your details.

The worry for candidates is that they do not meet the required criteria. But these tips will help job candidates create a successful CV.

Prioritising the Basics

When writing a CV, there is no right or wrong way but there are some basic sections that should be included.

This includes personal and contact information, education and qualifications, employment history and/or work experience, relevant skills to the applied job, own interests, achievement or hobbies.

Including references is another basic that should be prioritised.

Visual Presentation

The key to a successful CV is to make it visually appealing and sophisticated.

It must also be printed on clean white paper otherwise employers will feel that the candidate is unprofessional.

The layout should always be well-structured. CVs should also never be crumpled or folded, so it is advised to place them in an A4 envelope.

For employers, the main part is the upper middle part of the first page. Recruiters’ naturally look at that part so ensure that the most important information is there.

Keep it Under Two Pages of A4

A successful CV is concise and makes every point necessary without waffling.

Having pages and pages is unnecessary, just keep things short and sweet.

Potential employers see a CV as a reassurance that the candidate may be the right one. If everything is good, there is a better chance of a job interview.

Employers receive lots of CVs at a time so it is unlikely that they will read each one all the way through.

Most will judge a CV within sections so it is best not to have more than two A4 sheets of paper.

Understand the Job Description

When reading a job application, look at the details all the way through as the clues to writing a good CV are there.

Note down the details using bullet points. Highlight everything in the description you can satisfy as well as the bits you cannot.

In the lacking areas, add the skills you do have and adapt them in a way that makes them relevant for the required job.

For example, the job requires someone with sales experience. That does not stop you from including any previous retail work, even if it something through university.

It will demonstrate the skills you do have and show how they can be transferred.

Tailor the CV to the Role

After reviewing the job details and how you can link your skills, it is time to write a CV specifically for the role.

A generic CV does not exist as employers will see it as lazy if a candidate decides to send them one.

Every CV that is sent to recruiters should be tailored to the role. You do not need to re-write the entire thing, just adjust the details so they are relevant.

Using your Skills to Full Effect

Under the skills section of a CV, mention any key skills that can give you an edge from other candidates.

This could include IT skills, communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving or even speaking other languages.

Skills can come from anywhere so it is best to consider what you have done in order to grow your skills, even if it was from being in a sports team or volunteering.

Using your Interests to its Full Potential

Under the interests section, point out anything that highlights the skills you have gained which recruiters look for in candidates.

Mention any examples of positions of responsibility, working alongside others or anything that shows that initiative being used.

This could include something like starting a successful weekend league football team. Add anything that shows how interesting, skilled and diverse you are.

Avoid including passive interests like watching TV as it can appear as if you are lacking in people skills.

Highlight Experiences in your CV

Under the work history and experience sections, it is important to use positive language.

Use words like ‘developed’, ‘organised’ or ‘achieved’ when talking about past experiences.

Try to make the skills you have learned relevant to the applied job role.

An example could be: “This position involved planning, organisation and leadership as I was responsible for a team of people.”

Prioritise the valuable skills you have gained from past work positions. Any skills gained will help.

Include References in your CV

References are important as they will provide the employer with an insight into what you’re like as well as your skillset.

A reference should be a previous employer who can verify your skills and experience.

It is okay to use a teacher or tutor if the role is your first job. Ideally, include two referees but do not include any relatives.

Write their name along with their phone number and email address.

Update your CV

It is vital that job seekers look at their CV regularly and to update it if any new skills or experience is missing.

For example, if you have just completed any volunteering, make sure that it is mentioned.

Recruiters are always impressed with those who take the extra effort to increase their own set of skills.

By taking these steps, your CV will give potential employers the right impression and help you to become more likely to be called for an interview.