CVs: How to get Noticed

Welcome to the series where we will post weekly articles to help young minds of today become the CEOs of tomorrow. In this mini-series, we will explore the basics of getting a job, starting with CV rewrites and interview techniques to help you get through the doors. We will move on to more complex topics as we build up your skills.

Think of this series as your very own ice cream parlour. We will start with classic flavours like vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate, but as we build your skills, productivity, knowledge, and personal development, we will work towards the culinary organisms of stracciatella or that mint chocolate chip we all love, of course with some sprinkles on top.

What is a CV?

So, what is a CV? Is it a piece of paper with your name on it, or a list of your previous jobs with the classic skill sets like hard-working, great teamwork skills, and strong leadership skills? Technically, that is exactly what a CV is, but I don't want you to think of it like that. Don't settle for the bland vanilla flavour or you won't get any offers through the door. You need to turn your CV into something that highlights all of your unique skills and experiences, just like an ice cream parlour advertises all of the unique flavours it has to offer to stand out from the crowd.

How to Get Noticed

When employers are looking at thousands of CVs, the best way to stand out is to prove your value and show what you can offer. For example, instead of saying "While working at the ice cream parlour, my main responsibility was being a team leader," explain how you learned or delivered the skill you claim to have. For instance, say "While I worked as a team leader at the ice cream parlour, I managed a team of six workers efficiently. This was to ensure that the store sales targets were met while keeping a hygienic workspace that invited customers in." Then, explain how you did this, "I did this by introducing new ways of working and by setting individual sales targets based on my workers' skills." This demonstrates to employers that you haven't simply picked any word out of a hat to put on your CV but instead shows that you have valuable skills and experiences to bring to the table.

Cater to The Employee

Secondly, you need to tailor your CV to the job role you're applying for. The best way of doing this is to research the company to find out what skills and experience they desire for the job you want. Read the job description and incorporate the expected skills and requirements into your CV. Recruiters search for the keywords linked to that specific job, so you have a higher chance of your CV being reviewed if you incorporate the keywords that the employer is looking for. Highlight the skills that the employee is seeking.

Also, make sure to look into the company. What are their values? Are they eco-friendly, sales-driven, or both? In any case, make sure your CV appeals to the company's values. You won't have a successful ice cream shop selling bicycles

Keeping it Simple

Finally, and I cannot emphasize this enough, lose the crazy colors, lose the special effects, and lose the flamboyant fonts. Make your CV neat, tidy, clean, and in black and white. This is essential for the success of your CV. Think about it, you are more likely to get ice cream from a clean parlour than one that is all over the place. The more inviting your CV is, the more inviting you are as a future employee. This alone could give you an edge over other applicants, even if they have served more ice cream than you.

Creating a winning CV is the first step in securing your dream job. Showcasing your unique skills and experiences, focus on highlighting your value and tailor your CV to the job role and company you are applying to. Finally, keep it simple, clean, and professional. Follow these tips and you'll be on your way to securing your dream job in no time!