Understand what employers really think when evaluating your resume and improve your odds of getting an interview…
Do you find yourself submitting your CV to potential employers only to elicit little or no response?
Understanding what employers are looking for in a CV can help you craft a stronger application and improve your odds of being called for an interview. Here is some insight into the common questions hiring managers ask themselves when evaluating CVs.
Can the applicant fill my need?
Even if you possess the necessary experience, if your CV isn't targeted to the specific company and role, your qualifications could appear unrelated. So, rather than submit a generic CV for each job you apply for, research the company and position and tailor your CV in a way that shows your skills and experience align with the role.
Will the applicant stay for the long term?
The hiring process is lengthy, complicated and expensive so hiring managers want employees who are not likely to leave the company soon after accepting an offer. They'll look to your CV for proof of a stable work history.
If you have job-hopped in the past, consider submitting a functional, rather than a chronological, CV organised around your skills, experiences and accomplishments, not the specific roles you have held at various points in your career.
Is the potential employee professional?
Make sure your CV is free of typos and grammatical mistakes and that it is easy to understand. Have a friend or relative read through your CV with a sharp eye to spot any errors you might have missed.
The hiring process can be confusing at times, but one thing is clear – a well-written, targeted CV gives you the best chance of being called for an interview and, ultimately, landing the position you want.
Ask your Michael Page recruitment consultant for feedback on your CV and before you submit your CV for a position, think like a hiring manager to ensure it won’t get lost in the crowd.
