How to write a good CV? Clear and convincing CV is an important part of getting a job. There are many CV formats and templates that work well. Whatever format you are using, remember to follow these key points and avoid making some common mistakes:

1. Customise

Compelling CV is customised for the position and organisation you are applying for. Get to know some important facts about the job and company, and describe why your are a good match for them. Do not overdo it.

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2. Distinct headline

Which one of the following headlines is more interesting?

• CV 11/2020 John Smith
• Result orientated Business Developer John Smith

Most people say the latter because it contains more information than the former. A good solution in a headline is to 1) tell what kind of roles interest you 2) how you are different in a positive way compared to the other industry professionals.

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3. Beginning generates curiosity

Concentrate on the beginning of your CV. If it is not convincing, people seldom read the second chapter – not to mention the second page.

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4. Professional picture

High quality professional picture makes your CV more personal and creates trust. Choose a picture that fits well to the position and organisation you are applying for. In some countries, professional picture in a CV is not needed. Check what is expected in the country you are applying for work.

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5. Professional summary

At the beginning of your CV answer the following questions with 8-10 sentence story:

1. What is your expertise and how are you different from others?
2. What are the strengths that you bring to the position? Verify them with numbers and measures when possible.
3. What motivates you? What are your professional interests?
4. In what kind of team and organisation you perform well?
5. What kind of career related goals do you have?

6. List and write down your essential work history

1. Start from your most recent job. Not from your first job.
2. If the organisation you worked for is not as well known as Apple, Google, Microsoft, describe the company in a nutshell.
3. Describe your responsibilities, your achieved results and what you learned. Use measures and numbers to demonstrate whenever possible.
4. If you do not have any job experience, describe how your education, hobbies and voluntary work have developed your skills and knowledge.

7. Check your grammar and contact information

Mistakes in grammar do not build trust. Some might even consider them as a sign of carelessness or ignorance. Be extra careful with the titles of references and contact information.

Bonus tip

Presenting your skills, knowledge and competence is important. Emphasise how you can use your skills and experience to adapt to the current world situation. Describe your experience in working remotely, attending virtual meetings and learning independently.

You can show and share your competence and skills on Mazhr Card. Mazhr Card is your dynamic digital CV that will help you share your potential with recruiters and your network. You can show your verified strengths and potential on your Mazhr Card.

You have full control over what you share on your Mazhr Card. You can include the results you want from the tests you have taken. You decide which parts of your card and profile are visible, and you can share your Mazhr Card with employers and your network through a shareable link.

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And get found by employers! Once you fill your Mazhr Card and add there your competencies, we’ll start matching you to the open positions that fit your profile. You can create your Mazhr Card here!

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Author:
Antero Ojanaho
Senior Consultant at Mazhr

antero.ojanaho@mazhr.com

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