How to write a professional CV?

If you want to learn how to write a professional CV, you’ve come to the right place! Before we dive deep into the process itself, I want to encourage everyone to read through our Blog page. Besides this article, there’s a step-by-step CV writing guide that walks you through the entire process. You can get the guide right here. Follow the principles outlined in it and learn how to write life-changing CVs in no time.

But first, what do we mean by “professional CV”? In short, it means a document that depicts you as a serious, knowledgeable, and job-worthy candidate.

Regardless of what you decide to do next (after reading this article), we’ll cover the basics of writing a professional CV in this article.

#1 Don’t use templates

Here at Linking Lines, we say this again and again: don’t use templates. If you want to learn how to write a professional CV, the first step is to ditch the templates.

Everyone has access to the same templates, which means that your CV will be lost amongst others. And that is not something you want as a candidate.

#2 Optimize your CV

You need to optimize the content of your CV to fit the job ad you’re applying to. Yes, it really is that simple! Use the job ad as an inspiration and try to incorporate as many phrases from it in your CV. This will help you get noticed both by recruiters and CV scanning software.

CV optimization is the foundation of learning how to write a professional CV – you need to understand, accept, and lastly implement this!

#3 Create an overview section

There’s nothing better than giving the reader what they want to see as quickly as possible. In this case, it means as soon as they open your CV. Writing an effective and concise overview section in which you list why you are the perfect candidate is the way to go.

Of course, keep it relevant to the job ad and/or your field and stick to professional stuff only.

#4 Mind the length

It’s easy to get carried away when it comes to CV writing. But, keep in mind you’re just one of dozens candidates and recruiters don’t have unlimited time. This means you need to keep it short and give them the basics. All the details are discussed at the job interview – remember that!

So, if you want to learn how to write a professional CV, you can’t be precious about your experience and background. Instead, try to look at it from a distance, be objective and only include the information that can help you land the job interview.

I learned how to write a professional CV and got no results

Basically, what happens if you follow all the advice but still have no results? Well, first, I’d suggest you submit your CV for a free analysis right here. Maybe you’re missing something that we can identify.

Next, are you being completely realistic and honest with yourself about your suitability for the role(s) you’re applying to? Do you have relevant work experience or education needed to do the job? Do you meet at least essential requirements? Or most of the listed essential and additional ones?

There are also other questions that impact your job search and CV success. For example, what is the job you’re applying for? Is it possible that there are internal candidates, and the public ad is just protocol?

Do you have a LinkedIn profile? Is it filled out, and does it match your CV?

Remember that each case is different, and the success of your professional CV will depend on your personal situation and various factors. However, you should never give up – keep on trying! Test your CV and adjust it to job ads until it gets you where you want to be.

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