Writing a CV can be the most challenging part of job hunting. It’s the first insight a potential employer gets of you, so you have to get their attention pretty fast. Even more alarming, most recruiters will only look at your CV for a few seconds before they decide whether or not to proceed with your application.
Below, we’ve put together a few tips recruiters say you must have if you want your CV to be noticed.
Focus on your personal statement
Depending on what industry you are in, your personal statement could be the difference between an interview and a rejection letter.
Keep your statement specific, and and use examples to back up your points with examples. Don’t overdo it though, a personal statement should be brief, but detailed. Just make sure you cover who you are, what you can offer, and what your career goals are. For example, you could write that you are an ‘experienced and handy Body Shop Repair Manager looking for a new challenge’. It’s precise and relevant.
Oh, and don’t forget to refer back to the job description by listing skills the employer mentions.
Tip: aim for around 150 words (four or five lines).
Emphasise results over responsibilities
Rather than listing what you were responsible for doing, talk about achievements in your past roles, and if possible the results accomplished.
For example, you might say that you are outstanding at prioritising your work, but can you give a well-rounded explanation as to just how much you would get done in a day?
Customise
A tailored CV is a standout CV – why? Because it’s exactly what employers are looking for. Someone who ticks off everything they require. Of course, you shouldn’t just copy and paste what they have said, and you certainly shouldn’t lie about being able to do the skills they require – but if you are confident that you can deliver everything they have asked for, give examples of what you’ve done to prove that you are the right person for them.
Example: ‘managed others’ is a vague attempt at what you actually did. Make sure you give a full insight with a more detailed example: ‘Managing and training Auto Body Repair Technicians in repair techniques’.
Use power words
Give your CV an extra oomph by using power words. Words such as adaptable, innovative, implemented and achieved emphasise your achievements.
Also, did you know that a lot of companies will filter out CV’s that don’t use certain keywords? That’s why it’s essential that you make sure you have referred back to the job description – you have to make your CV exactly what the employer is looking for.
Show industry insight
Showing that you have awareness of the industry you are applying for is the best way to stand out to a recruiter. Sometimes it’s not enough to know how to do the role, you have to be educated in your area too. You will be much more attractive to employers if you can demonstrate knowledge of your industry, so make sure you are up to date with any major news or industry changes.
Tip: Don’t try to blag this – if you reach interview stage you will most likely need to answer more questions about your industry.
Struggling for ideas on how to write your CV? Why not download our Bodyshop Repair Manager CV template below?
And if you’re looking for a new role, you can search for Bodyshop roles here!
