Make an Impact with your CV

Your CV is the first impression a new employer has of you so a really good one will make you stand out from the crowd right from the outset. Here are our tips for creating the most impactful CV.

Start with a good CV template (most word processing software has them). We like the style here.

Before you start do a bit of research about the company/job you are applying for, each CV you send should appeal to that employer. Make a list of points of interests or values you connect with.

Now get writing...

Profile - Brief personal statement ( 3 or 4 sentences), tailored for each role you apply for, mention your values, top skills and experiences which best match the culture or nature of the role you're applying for.

Qualifications - Starting with your most recent, list them here.

University Name; City, County –Degree, Year

Experience - Job Title, Company Name, location. Starting with your most recent, detail your exact role and what you actually did there and any achievements whilst working there. Continue with your next roles in order - again highlighting your key roles and involvement in projects

Major Projects - Categorise the projects under headings by building type (Residential, Hospitals, Education, Offices etc) and detail as much information as you can and highlight what your actual role was on the project.

References - You do not need to give these on your CV as these will be collected later in the process but feel free to mention anyone who might sing your praises (and are happy to be contacted).?

Interest - If you have a particular hobby or pastime it really helps to include it. You never know if the person reading might also be into jujitsu, running or rescuing hedgehogs. That lucky connection might just put you on the top of the pile.

Your CV may go over 3 or 4 pages if you have been working for a number of years. This is fine if it is well structured and organised for easy reading.

Check your CV for errors and get someone else to proof read it too.

Remember a good recruiter, like Orange Appointments, will also help you to prepare your CV and give lots of hints and tips.

Don’t forget to get your Linkedin profile up to date and looking good as employers could check you out there too. Now you are ready to start applying!