If you have decided it’s time to look for a new job or are passively seeking your next career move, having a well written CV is your essential first step. Most employers spend just a few seconds scanning each CV before moving on to the next.
Our advice is based on over 20 years’ successfully recruiting for the automotive industry – read on and don’t leave anything to chance.
Presentation
Length
The length of your CV will depend on the amount of experience and job you have had; however, two pages is usually considered the norm. Keep it punchy, to the point and have less information for less recent or less relevant roles.
Style
Create your CV in a medium that matches the type of role you are applying for, whilst artistic infographics may be appreciated by those in the creative industries, they are unlikely to achieve the same favour in banking.
Beyond all, your CV needs to be clear, easy to read and logical. The font used should be consistently the same style and size throughout and any sub-headings used should be easily identified.
Content
Contact details
As a minimum your CV should include your name, email address, mobile number and your general location. Use an email address that is regularly monitored and sounds professional.
Personal statement/ Overview
Not a necessity, but a popular option, a short personal statement at the beginning of your CV can be used to explain why you are the best person for the role, the type of person you wish to portray yourself as or reasons behind your job search. This area can also include an overview of relevant skills.
Career history
Your career history should always be listed in reverse chronological order and should include:
- Who your employer was / is?
- What your job title was / is?
- The dates of employment (include month and year and using ‘present’ if currently still employed)
- Overview of responsibilities whilst in the role – These should be listed using bullet points, providing short and concise information on key tasks undertaken in your role.
Achievements
Alongside your responsibilities, you may wish to list what you have achieved whilst in your role. It is important that these achievements are specific and measurable, use numbers/ percentages for more emphasis and are factual.
Education and relevant qualifications
Your educational history should always be listed in reverse chronological order and should include the qualification that was gained, where and when. This section may also include any professional development experiences, such as courses attended and membership to any relevant professional body.
Other things to consider
Tailor it
Take the time to make sure your CV reflects each role that you are applying for. Research the company and use the job description as an insight into what the employer is looking for. Highlight the skills and experiences that are relevant to the role.
Download our templates
CV Template 1 CV Template 2 CV Template 3Here at Copeland we help employees progress their careers in the automotive industry every day. Learn more about how we help candidates: https://www.copelandselect.co.uk/candidates/
If you’re ready for your next career move start by registering with us here.