Tailoring your CV to be relevant to each application is one of the most crucial steps to take when looking for a new role. Making sure that your CV address each of the key criteria outlined in the job description is essential and will have a significant impact on whether you land that all important interview.
Whilst many candidates will (or should!) always have an up-to-date CV to hand, it is unlikely that simply submitting this each time you apply for a job will be enough to make you stand out from the crowd with a potential employer when they have dozens, if not hundreds, of applications being received for the most sought-after roles.
With so many applications to sift through, it is important that a prospective employer can see at a glance that your application ticks as many boxes as possible from the list of essential and desirable criteria outlined in the job description. And having lots of great information buried amongst paragraph after paragraph of text will do you no favours – your CV must be direct, punchy and straight-to-the-point so the hiring manager can clearly see that you have the skills and experience that they are looking for.
So, how can you tailor your CV for interview success?
Carefully read the job description and make sure that the language you use reflects that which has been outlined by the employer.
Consider how you can align your knowledge and experience with the specific requirements of the role; where possible give clear examples that back up your suitability.
Demonstrate how your achievements to date match the goals and objectives of role you are applying for. Highlight any successes, and evidence these with results that reflect the outcomes the business is aiming for itself.
Think about the industry sector and the skills which are going to be more appealing to a would-be employer; even in roles where the job title is the same there will be differences in what is required so it is important that you demonstrate that you understand that certain knowledge and experience may be more relevant to one sector than another.
Consider the level of responsibility you will be required to have in the role and ensure that, if applicable, you focus attention on areas such as line management experience, leadership style and staff development as well as your own personal attributes.
Use your personal statement to outline your experience, approach and ambitions and tailor these to be line with the company’s expectations of the role.
Do not be afraid to leave things out of your CV. As you progress in your career, it is not always suitable to include every aspect of every role that you have previously held. Make sure you understand what a prospective employer is looking for, so they don’t have to search through long-winded descriptions to find the nuggets that are of interest.
Sharp Consultancy specialises in the recruitment of temporary, interim and permanent finance and accountancy professionals. With offices in Leeds and Sheffield our highly experienced team of consultants recruit for positions throughout Yorkshire and beyond. CONTACT US today to find out more.