Creating a stand-out CV

CREATING A STAND OUT CV

Crafting a good CV is the basis to any successful job application. Though your CV isn't the reason you'll get the job, it can certainly stop you from getting an interview. So don't fall at the first hurdle! This is your chance to shine so don't be modest - but equally don't exaggerate! Keep it professional, factual and to the point.

Start by creating a checklist to ensure your CV highlights the key skills and experiences relevant to the job you're applying for. Tailor this list to match the role's requirements, focusing on what employers are looking for. This approach helps keep your CV clear, targeted, and aligned with the job description, showing you've put thought into your application.

1. TAILOR YOUR CV

It may sound obvious but tailoring your CV (as well as your cover letter) to the job spec is crucial. Ask yourself, what can I bring to the role? What is the employer looking for? Answering these questions will help you to stand-out. Showcase the skills and experience the job requires, and use keywords from the job description to show how you will add value to the company.

CV Template

2. SHOWCASE SKILLS

A list of skills on a CV can be meaningless to an employer unless you can back them up. Use clear facts to highlight your value to an employer and take the time to demonstrate your skills (specialist and transferable) wherever possible.

3. TRANSLATE YOUR SKILLS

Your transferable military skills and experience are valuable in civvy street so make sure the employer knows this when they read your CV. First of all you will need to spend some time 'translating' your military appointment titles and any acronyms or jargon so the reader will understand them. Once you've done this, link your military experience to the desired skills and qualities needed for the job and demonstrate how they'll be useful to the role you are applying for. Remember you have unique skills and experience to share with employers so do not undersell or underestimate yourself.

HOW TO TRANSLATE YOUR SKILLS

4. TAKE OWNERSHIP OF YOUR CV

Look we get it, writing a CV can be quite the task - but do not fall into the trap of copying someone else's CV. Remember your CV is about YOU and how you want to market yourself to a potential employer so don't leave it to others to write. That said, it's important to take advice on your CV. Ask a friend, relatives or colleague to proofread your CV and to give feedback on the contents.

5. PROOFREAD

It is so important to check your CV for typos and mistakes. Don't waste all the hard work you've put into honing your CV by sending it out with errors. Inaccuracies in your CV will tell employers that you don't have attention to detail. Use spell checker and get someone else to proofread it — even if you've read it several times it's amazing how many mistakes go unnoticed in your own work.

5 Golden Steps For CV Writing

Creating a stand-out CV