How to Write a CV?

One of the essential documents of job applications is undoubtedly CVs. This document, which contains information about your work-life experience, educational background, and working skills, provides your first contact with the target company. For this reason, the aim of this article is to give beneficial tips on how to write a CV.

A well-prepared CV should contain the personal information, educational information, career life, and competencies of the job applicant. CVs are very important as the first impression in job interviews. In this case, there are some critical points to be considered while preparing a CV. Professionally prepared CVs are important for the first impression. Now, let's answer the “how to write a CV?” question together.

Important Points to Consider When Writing a CV

An impressive CV with sufficient length will make you stand out. Moreover, writing an effective CV will not only make you stand out in the recruitment process but also positively affect your recruitment process. To do this, there are some points that you need to pay attention to. So, let's explore these important points and learn how to prepare a CV together.

Choose a Template That Describes You Well

There are three main criteria that make a CV remarkable and successful. These are:

• Presentation
• Layout
• Content

When writing a CV, you should meticulously focus on each of these criteria and reflect on yourself in the best possible way. Start by creating a template that does not strain the eyes of the reader, does not appear crowded, and brings all the information together in an organized manner. Choose an easy-to-read font and ensure proper line spacing and margins.

You may have come across ready-made CV examples online. If you wish, you can use a template that reflects you. However, if you have time and opportunity, creating a unique CV is more beneficial. In some sections, you can also use bullet points or highlights.

Set Your Headlines

After determining a suitable CV template, you should define the headings to be included in your CV. Your personal information, education background, previous work experience, certificates, skills, references… There is no right or wrong way. You should arrange the information based on the requirements of the job you are applying for.

Trying to place every detail about you may make your CV complicated. Therefore, filter the information based on relevancy.

Create Sort Order

Once you determine the information you want to include, you should organize it in a hierarchical structure. Your contact information, work experience, and education background must be present, but you don't need to mention all events, certifications, or every talent you have.

HR departments review many CVs daily. Including irrelevant information may result in your CV being overlooked. Therefore, position the information based on its relevance to the job.

Give Short and Concise Information

Did you know that employers spend around 10 seconds reviewing a CV? A successful and well-structured CV should clearly reflect the most important information. Ideally, aim for 1 page, maximum 2 pages. Avoid using small font sizes or tight spacing to force everything onto one page.

Clear, concise, and understandable text is one of the most important answers to the question “how to write a CV?”

Review Your Interests and Skills

Your skills and interests can help you stand out among other candidates. Foreign language proficiency, computer skills, communication skills, and compatibility with teamwork are important to showcase—if they are relevant to the job.

Introduce Yourself Correctly

You can list your achievements and skills in your CV. However, using an overly assertive tone may create a negative impression, while being overly modest may prevent you from expressing yourself adequately. The tone you use is very important.

Also, ensure that all the information you include is accurate and verifiable.

Don't Forget to Add Your References

You may include people who have worked with you before and trust your abilities in the "References" section. These individuals can provide companies with valuable insights about you. However, make sure to choose references who are relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Finally, if you prepare your CV in the most correct and strategic way, you can increase your chances of finding a job and express yourself much better. Remember, your CV reaches the company before you do. That’s why it should stand out among hundreds of candidates.