Let’s talk about your CV. What to include or not in your CV.

A lot of people put off updating their CV, finding it an uncomfortable, confronting task. It doesn’t need to be. Your CV reflects your career experience and is an opportunity to show a touch of your personality too. 

When creating or updating your CV, keep in mind that the goal is to show you’re the perfect person for the role. You’re not a robot. You’re a person who will not only crush the role but bring personality and value to it. The Great Resignation shows the job market is red hot right now. To make sure you’re absolutely making the best of an already great situation you want your resume to stand out from the crowd.

Let’s walk through how you can do that.

But first, remember many hiring managers, recruiters, employers are crazy time poor. Consider this and think how you can make their life easier. It immediately makes you more likeable. They’ll be looking at dozens of resumes, so you want to make sure that out of those resumes, yours is the one that stands out.

Here are some great ways to be memorable.

1) Template, template, template!

Your template needs to be clear and easy to read. Think of it as if it is answering a checklist, enabling the hiring manager to read through it and go “oh yes, yes, yes. This ticks everything I need. I must speak to them!”

An easy-to-read template will allow recruiters to glance over your resume and see exactly why you’re the best fit.

Tip: I recommend a split page template, so you have two sides on the one page. This creates space, adds style, and easily blocks off each section to quickly read.

2) Make it one page

Yes, one page! A one-page resume allows you to explain how you will add value without leaving space for any kind of waffle. A one pager allows you to communicate concisely and directly. A huge plus.

3) Include statistics if you can

It’s great if you can show statistics and achievements you have accomplished in your role. Show how you have added value, found solutions, and exceeded targets.

4) Make sure to tailor your resume for each role

For each position add something that will show the hiring manager that you’ve done your research on the company. Be proactive and customise your resume to show that you are what they’re looking for. Remember, tick off their checklist.

5) Don’t include irrelevant experience

The experience you include needs to be relevant to the role, showing your potential to add value.

You can add a photo

This one is hotly debated, but I think a photo is a resume value add! Some hiring managers, like me, are visual people and remember faces better than names.

Tip: Just make sure your photo is professional and has a nice background. 

You can think of your resume as your own personal branding. Take pride in it. Put effort into it. It will help open doors for you. Market yourself in a way that will set you up for success.

Amie Duignan is a Career Coach, Head hunter, In-House Recruiter and Founder at A.D Connects.