It is often easy to know what skills, expertise and experience employers are looking for when they post a job vacancy – it will be in the job advertisement. However, it can be difficult to understand how to put that information together on your CV in a clear, concise and interesting way.
In an attempt to stand out, more and more job hunters are creating quirky CVs and using attention-grabbing methods. A number have hit the headlines over the past year, with some candidates putting their CV on a chocolate bar, or even rapping their past experience to employers.
However, new research, which was conducted among over 900 recruitment professionals by CV-Library, found that 98.5% of recruiters believe traditional CVs are still hugely important in today’s recruitment process.
Founder and managing director Lee Biggins believes that while these quirky methods are memorable, they are not always entirely practical and it is important that the value of the traditional CV to UK workers is still promoted.
Remember the basics
Depending on the amount of experience you have, sometimes the basic skills required for any role can get lost. The same research found that just under three quarters (73.9%) of recruiters believe that candidates should still list skills such as Microsoft Office on their CV.
Whilst you may think basic skills are a given, they are essential to working within most companies and should not be neglected on your CV. Soft skills, such as communication, attention to detail, self-motivation, strong work ethic and time management are traits that really appeal to employers, and mean that you can thrive in any work environment.
Make your personal life interesting
The common things to list when talking about your personal life on your CV usually include, books, films and socialising – things that pretty much everyone likes. If you are going to talk about your life away from the office then focus on personal projects, think about what are you working on in your free time and focus on that, rather than writing an endless list of your interests.
Linking your social media
One of the most interesting aspects for those looking over CV’s is digging a little deeper on candidate’s social media accounts. If you have a positive online presence do not be afraid to include links, to your Twitter, blog or even LinkedIn account if you have some glowing testimonials.
If you are a graduate looking to kick-start your career, have a chat with Discovery graduates and see how they can help get you started
