Searching for CV advice can be a bit of a minefield. To keep things simple, we’ve rounded up our eight top tips for building your CV.<\/p>\n
Use simple language that conveys your message clearly. There\u2019s no need to use an over-complex vocabulary to talk yourself up \u2013 your achievements should do that for you. Use active and positive words like \u2018created,\u2019 \u2018developed\u2019 and \u2018achieved,\u2019 which also carry more impact when used at the start of a sentence. Convey your key skills in bullet points so that they\u00a0are easy to read and stand out.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t use more words than necessary \u2013 the clue is in the fact that you need to get it all into a maximum of two pages. You probably don\u2019t read all your mail, and neither do employers. In fact, you often have less than five seconds to grab the reader\u2019s attention, so you need to make an immediate impact.<\/p>\n
The employer\u2019s eye will naturally be drawn to the upper middle area of the first page, so that\u2019s where your most important information needs to be.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t exaggerate your responsibilities or achievements. If the company\u2019s serious about giving you the role, they will check things. Be honest about any big gaps in employment \u2013 in the interview, you can always explain how you used that period – whether it be redundancy, sabbatical or maternity leave.<\/p>\n
There\u2019s no such thing as a generic marketing CV, so create a unique CV for every job you apply for. You don\u2019t have to rewrite the whole thing \u2013 just work out how you can match each requirement on the job description and relate your skills\/achievements to the role you\u2019re applying for.<\/p>\n
Back everything up. You can no longer get away with making grand claims without providing examples. Wherever possible, supply facts and comparative data to illustrate your key achievements. e.g. \u2018Grew web traffic from X to Y.\u2019<\/p>\n
The hobbies section isn\u2019t just for mindlessly listing your favourite TV programmes. Use it to mention activities that highlight your creativity, such as blogging, or tie in with your professional life, such as a keen interest in digital. Mention any positions of responsibility, such as running a sports team on the weekend. Make sure you highlight your passions and interests.<\/p>\n
Review your CV on a regular basis and add any new skills, experience or courses as you gain them. Unless having a really good memory is one of your key skills, trying to remember something you did five years ago may be a challenge. Treating your CV as an organic, ever-changing entity will save a lot of time when you come to look for new roles.<\/p>\n