How to Create a Perfect CV
Curriculum vitae is a Latin expression which can be loosely translated as [the] course of [my] life.
Ever wondered if your Curriculum Vitae (CV) is good enough to make it to the top of the pile and what to do to ensure it gets there? Especially when applying for a role that you know you are perfect for and can’t imagine not being successful in?
Will your CV make the right impression with the ATS?
When you fully understand ATS, this will go a long way in landing the job that is right for your career. The days of a human recruiter reading your CV (and every other of the 1000’s of CVs received every week) are long gone.
An applicant tracking system (ATS) is software that manages the recruiting and hiring process, including job postings and job applications. The ATS organises and makes searchable information about job seekers. As its name implies, an ATS tracks candidates through the hiring process.
The ATS system does the first screening process and is more than likely to be the first set of “eyes” to review your CV and your CV and job application needs to pass the tracking system test. If your CV survives the ATS test, then this is a great sign because then it already has beaten hundreds of CVs on its way to being presented in front of a real human recruiter.
How do you make sure your CV is captured by the ATS?
Simple? Keywords! The ATS will be looking for phrases, skills and competencies related to the job you are applying for. Ensure that when you create your CV you include these important keywords! While preparing your CV do not ignore the job prospect. You need to keep in mind what the job requirements are and what skills and competencies the hiring company is looking for.
Tips that will ensure the ATS doesn’t miss your CV
DO
Create your CV in MS Word
Use easy to read fonts
Proofread your CV
Include key words and phrases for the ATS
DON’T
Don’t use Excel or PDF
Don’t use fancy fonts, graphics, corporate logos or graphs
Don’t use more than ONE personal email address
Don’t use your work email address
Personal Details
It may seem an obvious, but the 'Personal Details' section of your CV is your first opportunity to introduce yourself to a potential employer. Get the basics wrong at this stage and you can wave goodbye to the chances of getting an interview.
Personal details will include your name, address and telephone number (plus an international dialling code) and only ONE personal email address. If you give multiple email addresses the system will create multiple profiles of your data. Simple logic applies here, so don't include your work phone number or email address.
Your Profile
This section should highlight key facts about you, confirming your current situation and career goals. This is the first section a potential employer will read so keep it brief and to the point.
Languages
Detail fluency in spoken and/or written language skills.
Show Off Your Skills
Don’t make recruiters hunt for the most critical information on your CV. Include a list of your key soft and hard skill sets up top. Make sure your highlighted skills show why you’re a good fit for the job and all the better if these are keywords from the job description.
Employment History
In reverse chronological list your current and previous Job Titles and full Employer Name as well as specific start & end dates (month & year). Include a brief outline of your key responsibilities and your accomplishments in the role. A CV shown in reverse chronological order simply means that your most recent job is listed first, followed by each of your previous jobs in order by date.
Fonts. Don’t use fancy fonts. Use a simple, easy to read font.
Errors. Proof read your CV. Incorrect spelling and incorrect grammar is a major turn off.
Graphics. Don’t use diagrams, graphs, corporate logos as your CV stands the chance to become corrupt and can get lost within the ATS.
ID, Passports & Certificates. You don’t not need to attach any of these documents when applying for a job (unless specifically requested). When your CV has made its way through to the shortlist of applicants, your recruiter will request the necessary supporting documentation.
When applying for a specific job via email, remember to add the Job reference number to the subject bar in order for the ATS to sync your application efficiently.
Keep It Concise: Limit your CV to 1-2 pages at the most. Keep it relevant and pertinent to the job you’re applying for.
