The 5 Things Your CV Writer Won’t Tell You—And Why

In the competitive world of job searching, partnering with a professional CV writer can be a strategic advantage. However, there are aspects of the process that are rarely discussed and as a CV Writer and Career Coach who has drawn to the industy in a bid to create some positive change, here are five things your CV writer likely won’t tell you;

1. “Your CV Alone Won’t Land the Job”

Many clients come to CV writers with the expectation that a perfectly crafted CV will instantly land them an interview or even a job. While a great CV is critical, it’s only one part of the equation. The rest involves strategic networking, a solid online presence, and targeted applications. A CV can showcase your skills and achievements, but it's your own follow-through—networking, job applications, interview prep—that will propel you to the finish line.

Why They Don’t Mention It: CV writers want you to have confidence in their work. Admitting that the CV itself is just one piece of the puzzle can sometimes feel like they’re underselling their service. The truth is, the CV is the foundation; your efforts are the framework that builds around it.

2. “Once you have your new CV - You Still Need to tweak Your CV for every role”

So obviously as a CV Writer there is no doubt in my mind as to the value I can add when rewriting your achievements - i've helped countless job seekers secure interviews. Howver a huge bugbare of mine is that there are CV Writiers out that that dont take the time to explain to their clients how ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) work. Many job seekers overlook the impact of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which are designed to scan CVs for specific keywords before they even reach a recruiter. If your CV isn't tailored to match the job description, it might not make it past the ATS, even if you’re highly qualified. Customising your CV for each application—by aligning it with the job’s required skills, qualifications, and terminology—can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed.

Why They Don’t Mention It: CV writers often focus on creating a strong, general template that works for most roles - they want you to believe its a 100% done for you service to encourage you to buy. Truth is your CV will more than likely be much improved but if you want to bypass the simplistic ATS systems you need to mirror the specific language and terminiology used in each and every job spec.

3. “Your Personal Brand Is Just as Important”

In today’s digital age, the CV is just one representation of who you are professionally. Employers often research candidates online, including on social media platforms. Your LinkedIn profile, for instance, should align with and complement your CV, it should not however simple copy and paste sections of your CV. CVs by their very nature are typically quite 'stiff' and 'professional' documents, your Linkedin Profile offers you the opportunity to soften the language you used and appear more personable.

Why They Don’t Mention It: The job of a CV writer is often laser-focused on the CV itself, and many may assume clients already have a solid online presence. Or simply they may see this as out of their remit - Look for a CV Writer that offered a package option and will also assist with your LinkedIn.

4. “Some Achievements Can Be Left Out”

Highlighting every single career achievement can be overwhelming for the reader. A good CV is not a complete historical record; it’s a curated document designed to make you stand out for specific roles. This means certain projects or roles that don't align closely with your target job can be omitted. Relevance is key to a compelling CV—sometimes less is more.

Why They Don’t Mention It: CV writers want to help clients showcase their best. However, suggesting that certain achievements might not be relevant for certain roles can be a delicate conversation. Clients often feel strongly about including everything, but a more selective approach can make the CV stronger and more focused.

5. “Your CV Needs Regular Updating”

The job market evolves, and so do the skills, tools, and technologies required for different roles. A CV from five years ago may not reflect the competencies or the digital literacy that today’s recruiters are looking for. Regularly updating your CV ensures you’re always ready for unexpected opportunities and helps you stay relevant in your field.

Why They Don’t Mention It: Once the CV is handed over, many CV writers assume that clients will take on the responsibility of keeping it updated. But life gets busy, and job seekers sometimes put off updates until they’re actively job-hunting. Regular refreshes keep your CV relevant and ensure that you’re always prepared.

Final Thoughts

A CV is a powerful tool when crafted correctly, but it works best as part of a comprehensive career strategy. By understanding these lesser-discussed aspects, you’ll be in a better position to leverage your CV to its full potential. Working with a CV writer who communicates these realities can set you up for long-term success—both in your job search and in shaping your career.

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