Mastering the Art of CV Visibility: Tips from a Talent Acquisition Pro

How to get yourself in the hiring lane!

Welcome back to The Edit. I've missed you! 

As some of you may not know, for the last 13+ years, I have been climbing the career ladder motivated by my love for people and finding them the right job opportunities. Have I reached the top of that ladder myself? No, but am I happy? Yes.

So today, I want to set aside the visual masterpieces decorating my Instagram feed over at @theminimalsort and focus on something more deeply rooted in today's challenging economic climate: my day job.

Recruitment, Talent Acquisition, People Acquisition...whatever you want to call it. My day job involves finding the right people for the right jobs. I'm not exactly an OG, but I've been in this game a while now, so I know a little thing or two about what it takes to get hired. So, as someone who swims in the talent pool every day, I've seen it all – from CVs that sparkle like a diamond to those that need a bit of polishing. Fear not, because I'm about to share some tips and tricks to help you get your CV noticed faster than you can say "dream job."

1. Read the Job Advert not once, but twice!

Before you start crafting your CV masterpiece, please take a moment to read the job advert like it's a suspense novel. What skills and qualifications are they seeking? What's the company culture like? Understanding the role and company culture is crucial for tailoring your CV to fit like a bespoke suit.

2. Craft Your CV Yourself

Sure, there are plenty of CV templates floating around, but I'm a firm believer in the power of crafting your own. It's like writing a love letter – it should be personal, unique, and genuinely you. So, roll up your sleeves and start typing away! And, let’s face it, you know yourself better than anyone else, so this is your opportunity to shine.

3. Tailor, Tailor, Tailor

One size doesn't fit all when it comes to CVs. Tailor your CV to each job application by emphasising the skills and experiences most relevant to the role. Show them you're the missing puzzle piece they've been searching for. How do you do this? Well, if you followed tip #1 and read the Job Advert, this will be a piece of cake!

4. SEO Magic

In the digital age, keywords are king (and queen!). Sprinkle your CV with the right industry buzzwords and SEO-friendly terms, but don't overdo it. You want to impress, not overwhelm. So what does this mean? From the Job Advert, think about what words have been highlighted and really stand out. Things such as abbreviations the poster may have used, specific software, etc.

5. LinkedIn is Your BFF

They don't call it professional Facebook for no reason. So, if you're not on LinkedIn, it's time to join the party! Build a strong profile showcasing your skills, accomplishments, and career journey. Connect with recruiters and HR pros to expand your professional network. This is a key way of getting yourself seen. But remember, this is a professional networking site, so keep it clean. Recruiters don't want to see what you ate for dinner last week or what you wore on the weekend.

6. Attend Networking Events

In-person events may have taken a backseat recently, but they're making a comeback. Attend industry events and networking sessions to make meaningful connections and keep your spirits high. And if this is not within reach, there are several online networking events waiting for you to take your seat. 

7. Stay Positive and Motivated

Job hunting can be a rollercoaster ride. There will be ups and downs, but maintaining a positive attitude is essential. Keep your chin up, and remember, the right opportunity is out there waiting for you.

So, there you have it – the secrets to getting your CV noticed in a competitive job market. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a fresh graduate, these tips should help you stand out from the crowd.

Remember, your CV is your ticket to the career of your dreams. Pour your personality into it, tailor it with care, and keep your LinkedIn game as strong as your coffee/tea. And if all else fails, reach out to experts who can support you on your journey.

Stay fabulous, stay confident, and keep chasing those dreams. Happy job hunting!