Recruiters spend an average of 30 seconds on a CV before deciding if they will read it in detail or put it aside. With a look, they must be convinced that the candidate deserves an interview. But how do you get this test?
A CV holding attention should be clear, impactful and easy to read. Recruiters, often overwhelmed, will not take the time to decipher an too dense or poorly structured document. Amanda Augustine, career expert for Topcv, explains: “Employers are human and their attention is limited. A CV should generally not exceed two pages.” A concise and well -appointed document is therefore essential to avoid being relegated to oblivion.
In addition, graphic choices count as much as content. An overloaded layout or illegible typography can dissuade a recruiter from linger on your application. “Less, it’s really more”, underlines the specialist. It is necessary to opt for a sober design, with clearly visible titles, ventilated margins and a font readable on screen as on paper. “Fonts like Calibri, Verdana or Times New Roman are sure values”, she said. If you add color, it should be discreet and not complicate reading.
Spelling mistakes are another fatal trap. “Employers consider that it is an eliminatory error, because it is easily avoidable”, warns Amanda Augustine. The solution? Print your CV for more effective rereading, read each word aloud or even reread your document upside down to better locate the shells. In addition, avoid registering your age, marital status or hobbies unrelated to the targeted position. “Your CV is a marketing document, not an autobiographical story”recalls the expert. He must focus on your relevant skills and experiences.
Also note that automatic sorting systems scan CVs in search of specific terms related to the position. “Analyze the job offer and integrate the terms that come back to it most often, if it corresponds to your journey”, recommends the professional. But be careful not to abuse it: a CV too full of keywords will appear artificial and will put a human recruiter.
Finally, to make the difference, be sure to provide concrete evidence of your skills. A CV that is content to list general qualities will not convince anyone. “Everyone can write that he is good communicator or effective for sale. What will make the difference is to illustrate these skills with figures and facts”, advises Amanda Augustine. For example, rather than writing “social networks”, specify “increase in commitment by 40% in six months”. In short, here you are with all the keys in hand to hit the bull’s eye in less than 30 seconds time, so it’s up to you!
