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Creating a CV that grabs attention and effectively communicates your qualifications can be challenging, but it’s essential for landing your next role. This guide covers all the basics – from structuring your CV to making it uniquely yours.

CV Writing Tips

  1. Start with Contact Information: Ensure name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable) are clear and easy to find.
  2. Professional Summary: In 2-3 sentences, highlight your professional identity, experience, and what you aim to bring to the role. Keep it specific to the job you’re targeting.
  3. Tailor Each Section: Adapt your CV for each job application by focusing on the most relevant skills and experiences.
  4. Experience: List experiences in reverse chronological order. Include accomplishments, using quantifiable results whenever possible (e.g., “Increased sales by 20%”).
  5. Skills: Focus on relevant hard and soft skills. Emphasize those listed in the job description.
  6. Education and Certifications: Place higher degrees or certifications first, especially if relevant to the field.
  7. Design and Formatting: Keep it concise (1-2 pages) with consistent fonts and bullet points. Use a professional, clean layout, and avoid unnecessary graphics.

Best Sources for CV Writing Tips

If you’re looking to deepen your knowledge on CV writing, these trusted resources provide expert advice, examples, and templates to help you tailor your CV for success:

LinkedIn Career Blog: LinkedIn regularly publishes CV and resume tips that cater to trends in recruitment and HR practices.

https://www.linkedin.com

The Muse: This career site offers templates, advice, and specific examples for creating impactful CVs for various fields.

https://www.themuse.com

Indeed Career Guide: Indeed provides up-to-date examples, formatting options, and writing tips tailored to job seekers.

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice

Harvard University Office of Career Services: Harvard’s career services section offers free templates and comprehensive guides, especially for students and early-career professionals.

https://ocs.fas.harvard.edu/

Zety: This CV-building platform has articles and guides focused on CV writing and customization for diverse industries.

https://zety.com/

Still Want to Know More About Writing a CV? Check Out These HR Gurus!

For even more insights, these HR experts share tips from their experience and expertise to help you further refine your CV. Follow them for the latest career advice and insider knowledge on crafting a CV that stands out:

Liz Ryan – CEO and founder of Human Workplace, Liz offers a human-centered approach to CV writing and job searching. Her posts emphasize personal branding and using storytelling in resumes.

Adam Karpiak – Known for his straightforward advice and humor, Adam focuses on resume-building, interview prep, and navigating job searches. He’s particularly active on LinkedIn, where he shares insights from a recruiting perspective.

Stacy Pollack – An HR leader and career coach, Stacy regularly posts practical tips on LinkedIn about CVs, career transitions, and personal branding.

Katrina Kibben – Founder of Three Ears Media, Katrina specializes in resume advice and writing effective job descriptions. Her blog and social media are great for insights on inclusive, targeted CVs.

Madeline Mann – Creator of Self Made Millennial on YouTube, Madeline shares actionable CV and job search tips, especially for those early in their careers. Her videos and LinkedIn posts are engaging and concise.

Gary Vaynerchuk (GaryVee) – Although not HR-specific, Gary’s insights on personal branding are invaluable. He shares advice for making your CV and LinkedIn profile stand out with authenticity and creativity.

Jennifer McClure – As a keynote speaker and former HR executive, Jennifer shares career tips and strategies for creating a strong professional brand.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifermcclure/