Writing a successful CV can be one of the most challenging aspects of job hunting. Most employers review each CV for a few seconds before putting it in the ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ stack.

Let’s start with some tips for a successful CV!

1. Pick the best CV format

As a result, the first impression is key. If you present a neat, well-organized document, you can persuade recruiters to spend more time evaluating your CV.

Note: A poorly formatted CV would result in your application being rejected within the first round of screening.

Here’s how to properly format a CV:

• Proper order of sections
  • CV header with contact details
  • Personal Profile: CV objective or summary
  • Work experience
  • Education
  • Skills
  • Additional sections
    
• Rules to CV formatting
  • Choose clear and legible fonts
  • Be consistent with the layout
  • Get photos off of your CV

2. Make your CV brief and relevant

Generally, a CV should be no more than two pages long.

Don’t be one of those candidates trapped in the 1990s who believes they must include every detail about their lives on their CVs.

3. Include a personal statement

A short, catchy paragraph with no more than 100 words that shows recruiters why you are the ideal candidate for them.

Your personal statement will either consist of a CV objective or a CV summary.

What’s the difference?

A CV objective demonstrates what qualities you have acquired and how you can fit in. It’s a decent option if you have no work experience related to the role you’re applying for.

A CV summary, on the other hand, presents your professional growth and achievements. Use it if you are a professional with extensive expertise in your field.

4. Include specific skills relevant to the job opening

You probably have plenty of skills, but when it comes to listing skills on a CV, one factor stands out over all others: When it comes to skills for a CV, one issue is more important than any other: RELEVANCE.

The skills you decide to highlight on your CV must be relevant to the position you are trying to land.

5. Include additional CV sections

Include an additional section on your CV that highlights your great achievements: elements that demonstrate your worth as an applicant.

Example of elements you can include in the additional section:

• Business Awards
• Professional Certifications
• Publications

A well-written additional section may be the decisive point in hiring you over another candidate with a similar background.