It's tempting to update your old CV and call it good, but investing a little extra effort can make a big difference in how you feel about the job search and how employers respond.
Use your old CV for inspiration, but start fresh. Tailor each CV to the role by focusing on these key areas:
- Match Your Skills and Experience: Align your background with the job description, highlighting relevant achievements. Use data when possible to demonstrate results.
- Highlight Specific Projects:
Describe key projects, outcomes, and success measures. The formula “achieved [X] by doing [Y], resulting in [Z]” is a helpful guide.
- Showcase Leadership: If you’ve led a team, mention its size and the scope of your work.
- Include School Projects (if Limited Experience): For recent graduates or those new to the workforce, list projects or coursework demonstrating the skills needed for the role.
- Keep It Concise:
Aim for precision. A well-structured, one-page CV often makes a more substantial impact.