You have decided it’s time for you to find your new role. You now need to know how to create a CV that is clear and concise but how do you make yourself stand out amongst other applicants as the top candidate? CVs allow you to showcase your career history, experience, skill set and introduce yourself.

But how do you write a CV that stands out? Follow our top tips to ensure you are staying ahead of the crowd and get your career history communicated clearly and logically.

First impressions count

Check and double-check that your CV has no spelling and grammar errors before submitting it to any roles. This may be considered a very obvious point, but it is one of the most important. Even the smallest typo on a CV can stop an employer from progressing with an application.

Errors can give the impression that you rush and don’t have an eye for detail, it can look lazy and unprofessional – memorable, but not the first impression you want to give.

Make it personal

Start with a personal statement or short impactful summary of your career and your skills. Introducing yourself to your prospective new employer begins to bring your CV to life. Highlight key points such as your best achievements, your personal skill set – add in stats if you can on your personal ROI.

Do not lie, spin the truth, or misrepresent yourself

Lying on your CV comes with severe consequences. False information is considered fraudulent and could result in your new contract being terminated or worse you being prosecuted. Lies on your CV are illegal in most countries and changes like boosting your university grades or altering previous job titles might seem small, but they are classed as ‘fraud by false representation’ carrying a maximum of 10 years in jail.

Your experiences and skill set are unique

Your career path is unique, no two journeys are the same. Make sure you highlight your unique skill set and experience. Internal recruiters are looking at CVs daily so highlighting your key skills and key points can make all the difference helping you to stand out.

Photo or no photo

Should I have a photo on my CV? This is very dependent on the role or sector you are applying for. Having a photo on a CV can put a face to the name, on the other hand some potential employers will see it as largely irrelevant. Including a photo would be considered relevant in sectors such as fashion, TV or media, however roles in IT, finance, compliance, HR and the vast majority of professional industry sectors, jobs go to the candidate with the best CV and interview – not picture. For this reason, we would always advise not putting your picture on your CV.

If you really want to add a photo, please do not use a selfie, an image older than 6 months, or one from a night out. Whilst your future employer will be pleased to know you are ready to cut up the dance floor at the office Christmas party, let’s keep it professional until you have at least passed probation.

Tailor your CV to the role
Remove irrelevant information you want to make sure that whoever is assessing your Cv is able to find the information that they need quickly. Removing irrelevant information can not only keep the length of your CV down but allows you to target roles directly with relevant experience.  If you are able to demonstrate that your skill set is specific to the role you are less likely to be sifted out.

Watch your language

When talking about your own personal achievements when writing a CV, use words like:

  • Supported
  • Created
  • Developed
  • Won
  • Secured
  • Modernised
  • Streamlined

These words show confidence and allow you to highlight where you have added value in your current and previous roles. Internal recruiters and HR departments are busy so ensuring your CV reflects all your unique selling points and nothing else helps allows them to take note of your relevance for the role.

Let’s get personal

It could be considered a waste of time to add in your hobbies or interests when writing your CV however when it comes to interviews these small snippets of information can help the interviewer to break the ice and help you be remembered. If you do choose to add in a hobby, keep it short, sweet and appropriate – your future boss isn’t ready to hear about your large collection of China dolls.

Need help

Talk to the specialist team at Compliance Professionals who will coach you through what to include in your CV and what to remove to keep you relevant for the roles you are looking for.

Compliance Professionals specialises in compliance and financial crime recruitment. Our specialist consultants will help you with your next career steps and are able to talk to potential employers directly to ensure your skillset and experience is highlighted giving you the advantage.

Not sure where to start? Get in contact.

Back to industry news