Blog Post: How to Write a CV/Resume

When writing a resume, there are principles that you need to follow to make sure you cover all the areas and get the best result you can. We will cover three grounds on this post: Etiquette, crafting a standout resume and troubleshooting your resume.

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Etiquette on How to Write a CV/Resume

When crafting a CV or resume, certain etiquettes can significantly impact your presentation to potential employers. This section covers the dos and don'ts of writing an effective CV or resume:

• Do:

  • Tailor your CV: Customize your CV for each job application to highlight the most relevant skills and experiences.

  • Use a professional format: Ensure your CV is clean, well-organized, and easy to read.

  • Include a summary statement: Start with a brief summary that highlights your key qualifications and career goals.

  • Quantify achievements: Use numbers and metrics to demonstrate your accomplishments and impact in previous roles.

  • Proofread: Check for spelling and grammatical errors to ensure your CV is polished and professional.

• Don't:

  • Overload with information: Avoid including irrelevant details that do not add value to your application.

  • Use unprofessional language: Maintain a formal tone and avoid slang or overly casual language.

  • Lie or exaggerate: Be honest about your skills and experiences; dishonesty can be easily uncovered and damage your reputation.

  • Neglect contact information: Ensure your contact details are up-to-date and easy to find.

  • Ignore keywords: Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description to pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS).

By following these guidelines, you can create a compelling CV or resume that effectively showcases your qualifications and increases your chances of landing an interview.

Comprehensive Guide to Crafting a Standout Resume

Creating a compelling resume is crucial for landing your dream job. This section provides a comprehensive guide on structuring and tailoring your resume to stand out from the competition.

1. Contact Information

• Full Name: Ensure your name is prominently displayed at the top.

• Phone Number: Use a professional voicemail message.

• Email Address: Opt for a professional email address.

• LinkedIn Profile: Include a link to your updated LinkedIn profile.

• Portfolio/Website: If applicable, add a link to your portfolio or personal website.

2. Professional Summary

• Brief Introduction: Summarize your professional background in 2-3 sentences.

• Key Achievements: Highlight 2-3 major accomplishments.

• Career Goals: Mention your career objectives and how they align with the job you're applying for.

3. Work Experience

• Job Title: Clearly state your job title.

• Company Name and Location: Include the name and location of the company.

• Dates of Employment: Specify the duration of your employment.

• Responsibilities and Achievements:

  • Use bullet points to list your key responsibilities.

  • Quantify achievements with numbers, percentages, or other metrics.

  • Focus on results and impact.

4. Education

• Degree: State the degree you earned.

• Institution Name and Location: Include the name and location of the institution.

• Graduation Date: Mention the date of graduation.

• Relevant Coursework: List any relevant courses or projects.

5. Skills

• Technical Skills: Highlight specific technical skills relevant to the job.

• Soft Skills: Include soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

• Certifications: List any relevant certifications or licenses.

6. Additional Sections

• Volunteer Experience: Include any volunteer work that showcases your skills and dedication.

• Awards and Honors: Mention any awards or honors you have received.

• Languages: List any languages you speak and your proficiency level.

• Professional Affiliations: Include memberships in professional organizations.

7. Formatting Tips

• Consistency: Use consistent fonts, sizes, and formatting throughout.

• Readability: Ensure your resume is easy to read with clear headings and bullet points.

• Length: Keep your resume to one or two pages, depending on your experience level.

• Proofreading: Check for spelling and grammar errors.

8. Tailoring Your Resume

• Job Description: Carefully read the job description and tailor your resume to match the required skills and experience.

• Keywords: Use keywords from the job description to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

• Customization: Customize your professional summary and work experience to highlight the most relevant aspects of your background.

By following these guidelines, you can create a resume that effectively showcases your qualifications and helps you stand out from the competition.

Troubleshooting Your Resume and Your Job Search

Despite your best efforts, your resume might not be getting the attention it deserves. This section addresses common job search issues and offers tips on improving your resume and strategies.

Troubleshooting Your Resume

When your resume isn't yielding the desired results, it can be frustrating. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

• Lack of Keywords: Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes. Ensure your resume includes relevant keywords from the job description.

• Poor Formatting: A cluttered or overly complex resume can be off-putting. Use a clean, professional format with clear headings and bullet points.

• Generic Content: Tailor your resume to each job application. Highlight specific experiences and skills that match the job requirements.

• Length Issues: Keep your resume concise. For most professionals, a one-page resume is ideal. However, if you have extensive experience, a two-page resume may be acceptable.

• Lack of Quantifiable Achievements: Employers want to see results. Include metrics and achievements to demonstrate your impact in previous roles.

Strategies for Job Search

A successful job search requires more than just a polished resume. Here are some strategies to enhance your job search efforts:

• Networking: Leverage your professional network. Attend industry events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and reach out to contacts for potential opportunities.

• Online Presence: Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and reflects your resume. Consider creating a personal website or portfolio to showcase your work.

• Job Alerts: Set up job alerts on various job boards to stay informed about new opportunities. This can save time and ensure you don't miss out on potential jobs.

• Tailored Applications: Customize your cover letter and resume for each application. Highlight how your skills and experiences align with the job requirements.

• Follow-Up: After submitting an application, follow up with a polite email to express your continued interest. This can help keep your application top of mind.

By addressing these common resume issues and implementing effective job search strategies, you can increase your chances of landing the job you desire. Remember, persistence and attention to detail are key in a competitive job market.

After you finished your resume you can share it with your friends to get feedback and and publicly share using Penno.