If you think you are nearly there with your CV, then well done – we know it’s not easy!
Why not use these 25 questions as a simple sanity checklist to shape your final edit?
Have you written your CV with your target audience’s needs in mind?
Do the format, layout, content and key messages reflect the interests and mindset of the person likely to read it?
Who does your CV say you are? Ask a friend without disclosing your aspired identity.
Is it clear what your objective is in submitting the CV?
Can your target audience easily spot what your main selling points and experience are?
Is your CV attention-grabbing, reflecting the short amount of time the recruiter has to consider it?
Is the most important and relevant information for this particular opportunity there on the first page?
Does your experience section clearly identify the value you can bring through tangible results and quantifiable achievements, rather than dull descriptions of duties?
Does your CV represent YOUR achievements, or are you hiding behind what you did as a team?
Are your accountabilities and deliverables factual, concise and clear for each of your roles?
Are you confident discussing each point at interview?
Does your CV talk the recruiter’s language in terms of keywords?
Are there any mistakes in your spelling, grammar or punctuation?
Is it an easy read, both in terms of skim reading and reading it in-depth?
Does it contain any irrelevant information?
Does your content flow?
Are there any inconsistencies that don’t add up?
Do all your dates stack up?
Are there any information gaps that leave readers guessing?
Are any gaps explained in a concise and factual way?
Is your tone confident or are there any doubting demons lurking on your two pages?
It is two pages, right?!
Is the formatting consistent and appealing, making your CV easy to read?
Are there any layout inconsistencies that will distract the reader from your key messages?
Is your file saved in a format that the recruiter can open?
If you’ve answered yes to all of these questions, it sounds like you’ve done a great job!
If you need any help with your CV please contact us at enquiries@giraffecvs.co.uk.
Lis McGuire
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