If you’re applying for jobs but aren’t getting the feedback you’ve hoped to get, the first step is to review your resume. Does it successfully portray who you are and what you’ve accomplished? Does it have any typos? Can it be improved in any way?
We’ve come up with 8 key steps to make your CV stand out so that you can get the call for your next interview.
1. Keep and Customise
Before updating your resume, remember to first keep the original copy of your resume and then create customised versions for the jobs you’re applying to. Once you understand what the hiring manager is looking for, tailor your resume towards these needs by including important keywords on the job posting.
2. Structure
Structuring your resume correctly lets the reader navigate to certain sections quickly rather than having to read the full resume (which at this point, they most likely will not do). Make sure to use reverse chronological order, where your most recent role or degree will come first, then work backwards.
3. Be Clear and Concise
On average, hiring managers look at a resume for 6-7 seconds. Since you have limited time to make an impression, make sure you’re clear and concise with what you’re saying.
You can do this by:
- Organise your CV by sections (Experience, Qualifications, IT Skills)
- Highlight accomplishments, not just responsibilities
- Quantify your accomplishments with stats (Eg. Responsible for managing a database of 6,000 users)
- Keep the format and font simple
- Hyperlink your contact details
- Keep your resume to one page
4. Make It Visually Appealing
Factor in the type of role you’re applying for when customising your resume. If you’re applying for an IT role, we recommend going for a clean and sleek look. Remember, there’s a fine line between a resume standing out and a resume being overwhelming to look at.
Some ways in which you can customise your CV are:
- Use colour to highlight important details (achievements, skills)
- Use a size 12 font
- Keep the font, colour, and format consistent throughout the cover letter and resume
- Add a few tasteful designs elements
5. Remove Unnecessary Information
A hiring manager wants to see information that is only relevant to the company and role, so go ahead and remove supplementary information. This can include removing short term roles or your high school details (unless you’re applying for your first role).
6. Showcase Your Skills
If you have a portfolio, make sure to link it to your resume! This is a great way to show (not just tell) the hiring manager what you’re capable of.
For example, if you’re applying for a developer role, go a step further and create a dummy app or website for the company that you’re applying for. This is a sure way to get the viewer’s attention and again, showcases your experience with particular tools and programs.
7. Save as PDF
Make sure to always save your resume as a PDF. If you don’t, when an employer opens up your resume, the formatting will often get rearranged where it’s impossible to read. Once you’ve saved it as a PDF, make sure you rename the file under your name (e.g., “Name, Resume”), so that the employer will be able to find it quickly.
8. Proofread!
Last but not least, don’t forget to proofread your resume over and over again. Once you’ve done that, proofread it again and give it to a friend to look over. Imagine you’re a recruiter and you’re viewing your resume for the first time – what would they think? Give them a reason to want more.
Conclusion
Applying for jobs can be difficult and time-consuming, however, once your CV is looking great, you’re ready to apply to roles with confidence. If you’re looking to progress in your career, be sure to check out some of our new and exciting IT job opportunities!
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