3 Things to Think About When Preparing to Write Your First CV

Imagine having to go through hundreds of CVs each day. It’s hard work! It is essential to prepare a CV as most candidates share similar interests, education backgrounds and skills. The information will start to flow together before you know it. Record numbers of CVs are being sent to recruiters in this economy. This makes it harder than ever to find the best candidates. It is important to spend time on your CV preparation, including perfecting the layout and content.

You’ve probably heard the saying, “You never get another chance to make an impression.” Your CV is your chance to make a great first impression. To create a great CV, you don’t need to be an expert in graphic design. Here are some simple tips to improve its visual appeal.

Select the right paper

Many applications can be completed electronically these days, so you can simply email your cover letter and CV to potential employers. For those who need hard copies, however, you will have to choose the right type of paper to print your resume on. This should be an easy decision, and one most people don’t think about. However, you could easily get overwhelmed by the many paper options. If you want to be taken seriously, keep it professional and simple. Quality paper is important, along with the right paper colour. Applying for a traditional position in the financial industry is a conservative move. For example, in finance, law or medicine, you should choose conservative colors, such as white and ivory.

Length of CV

If you are applying to a prestigious job that requires you mention many publications and awards, don’t even consider submitting a CV longer than 2 pages. Employers will be able to quickly scan your CV and see the relevant skills and experience you have. Keep your CV between one and two pages. Employers/recruiters may review multiple CVs at once, so ensure that your focus is on the most important points. This can all be fit on one side A4.

De-clutter

Now you are trying to compress your CV onto one or two pages. You shouldn’t reduce the font size or increase the margins to keep all your information. You don’t want a cluttered CV with too many text and too little margins. It shouldn’t take recruiters too long to read your CV. Your CV should be simple to read and concise. They don’t have to know everything about you. Only what is relevant to the job you are applying for. It is important to give them just enough information to make them want you to meet them in person.