Always keep an updated resume; something that I have become quite the prodigy on.
Since graduating from University many moons ago, I've produced several versions of my CV, applied to numerous jobs, spoke with countless career coaches, interviewed for many many jobs, been hired (and fired) and then back on the job market. So, it's fair to say I've had more than my fair share of resume writing. Here's my take on how to get a winning CV:
First impression counts
As there is no set format or a guideline to writing a CV, you can do whatever you want (within reason of course) to make your CV work for you.
The best piece of advice anyone ever gave me was to use the first page to really sell myself. By highlighting your qualifications, experiences and any relevant achievements you have on the first page, you're more likely to grab the attention of recruiters and hiring managers.
HR people often sift through multiple CVs at a time so they usually only scan through CVs rather than read them in detail. So having an impressive CV first page is crucial to get through to the interview stage.
Do this by formatting your CV so the important and less wordy items are higher up. As a reference, I have formatted my CV so that it has 'Personal Profile' on top, followed by 'Education', 'Voluntary Work', 'Skills and Certificates', 'Employment History' 'Other Skills' and 'References'. My CV is two pages long. Employment history starts on the 1st page and runs over onto the second. Using this format allows for most of the content to be on the first page and it looks far more impressive than if I were to have 'Employment History' higher up in the order of things.
Keep it Current and Relevant
If you feel that you do not have sufficient work experience, it may be tempting to include as much detail as you can possibly think of in your CV, including that one time in middle school where you took part in a charity fundraiser.
Instead of doing that, include information covering only the past 5 to 7 years. If there are some relevant experience or qualifications that predate this time, feel free to include. Main point is don't feel that you need to bulk up your CV; try to keep things relevant and current.
If you feel you don't have enough relevant experience or qualifications, you may consider enrolling into some short courses so you can (i) get a better idea of the industry and role you are applying for and (ii) develop skills and have qualifications and certifications.
Know your industry
Have a good understanding of the industry that you want to get into. Research online about the key requirements for careers within the sector and see where you fit in. If you find that you have some of the key skills and experiences but are still lacking in some other areas, explore some ways that you can make up for the gap.
Also your CV should be tailored for the industry and the organisation you are applying to join. So, learning about the industry would be very beneficial.
Updating LinkedIn Profile
It's 2022 and prospective employers may choose to look at your LinkedIn profile. You may also find new opportunities on LinkedIn so always keep this updated.
Just as with your CV, you can include whatever section you wish to in your profile. My LinkedIn profile includes 'About', 'Experience', 'Education', 'Licenses & Certification', 'Volunteering', 'Skills', 'Honors & skills' and 'Languages'. I find that these have worked for my profile in the way that I wanted to highlight my work and education history.
LinkedIn is definitely a site to keep in mind for job seekers and career changers.
Trial and Error
What may work for one person may not be right for another person. While, I've found changing up CV format to be helpful, it may not be right for someone else. So, do not be married to your CV's formatting. Always have a critical eye and keep on updating it until you are fully satisfied that your CV is selling you as best as you can be sold.
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