How Can I Improve My CV?

1. Eliminate the Objective Statement and Use a CV Profile

The objective statement is a slightly outdated part of a CV. It’s often not read or reviewed thoroughly. A profile, however, in the same place, can provide a more thorough summary of your qualifications. Since some employers may not want to read through an entire CV, this section can be used to highlight your top qualifications. The CV profile is located just below the name and contact details.

This section should contain a one-paragraph professional statement that describes personal traits and background. You should also create a skills heading with a bulleted list of skills. This should be short and easy to skim. Having this small section is a key way of improving my CV.

2. Create Multiple CVs

Unless you’re applying for the same job at every company, then you likely need to create CVs that are tailored to each industry. For example, if you’re working as a professor of history but also have experience as a reader and researcher, the skills you want to highlight depend on where you’re applying. If you want to pursue a job as a writer, prominently display those jobs and roles. For jobs in teaching, focus more on the teaching experience you have. All CVs can be slightly tailored to make certain skills and qualifications more prominent.

3. Revise Font and Format

The overall format of the CV and font that you use can be more or less appealing. Certain standard fonts include Avenir and Helvetica. These are professional and should be used for more standard positions. If you’re working in a more creative field, you can consider a more creative font such as Courier or Futura. These are more casual but can be appropriate depending on your job applications. Make sure that you also take time to review the spacing and white space. The overall layout should be appealing without being too crowded.

4. Keep Paragraphs Short

Unless a recruiter or employer is extremely detail-oriented, chances are that this professional isn’t going to read everything on the CV. They want a CV that can be skimmed with the major experiences easy to view. Most paragraphs in your CV should be no more than three sentences. You can also keep paragraphs short by using bulleted lists where appropriate. Keeping your writing short and to the point may be challenging but it’s also a great way to ensure that more of your CV will be read.

Most people find that optimizing their CV is the best thing that they can do for their career. If you’re not sure of where to get started, this simple guide provides actionable steps of where to start.