How to write a great CV. Don't forget to blow your own trumpet!
Posted on Friday, March 15, 2024 by Hazel Gillespie — 17 comments
Ever wondered why recruiters keep banging on about why your CV or covering letter needs to highlight every key success and achievement? Well, here's the crux of it: these documents are your professional storytellers, your advocates in a competitive job market.
Imagine your CV as a highlight reel, or your 'elevator pitch'. It's not just a timeline of your work history; it's not a list, it should be a curated collection of your triumphs. Each role you've held is a chapter, and your achievements are the plot twists that captivate your audience—the hiring managers. They're not just looking for a candidate who's done the job before; they're searching for someone who's excelled at it.
Your covering letter, on the other hand, is your voice in the room before you physically get there. It's where you can weave your successes into a narrative that aligns with the company's goals, culture and requirements for the specific role. It's not boasting; it's demonstrating fit and potential. By talking about your specific achievements, you're showing them the value you've brought to previous roles and, by extension, the value you could bring to theirs.
Talking about your successes is also a confidence booster. It reminds you—and informs the employer—of the tangible impact you've made. Quantifiable successes, such as increasing sales by 20% or improving customer satisfaction scores by 30%, serve as proof of your capabilities. They're the hard evidence that supports the soft skills you claim to possess.
But remember, humility is key. It's a fine line between confidence and arrogance. Your successes should be presented as facts, woven seamlessly into your professional narrative, rather than bragging. They should be relevant to the role you're applying for, demonstrating how your past experiences have equipped you with the skills and knowledge to excel in this new position.
So remember, your CV and covering letter are more than just formalities; they're your personal marketing tools. Make sure they're sharp, and focused. .Next time you're updating these documents, blow your own trumpet a bit more and shine a light on your successes—they're the stepping stones to your next great opportunity.
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