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We all know that first impressions count, in this case, impressing your potential future employer is of the utmost importance.
Often, people apply for a position, without updating their CV or giving the process much thought. Mistake! This is (basically) the reason you are still unemployed, friend.
You’re your own worst enemy.
Follow these 10 points and be sure to get a call-back, and soon...
1. According to bbc.com, potential employers can easily discern between a generic CV and one that comes with great effort. So make sure you constantly edit and update your CV according to the job and department/company you are applying for.
2. Keep your CV concise with just enough of the important information. Keep it to two pages.
3. Always, but always include a cover letter to give potential employers a sense of who you are and how you would fit into their work environment and company culture. Then remember to tailor this letter each and every time you apply for a new job, says The Guardian.
4. Don’t forget the basics: personal contact details, education, qualification, experience and references. Sometimes, it’s all in the details.
5. Every potential employer would prefer a presentable, neat and professional CV according to the National careers service. There are different formats to choose from, but we say simple is always the best. And please, don’t go too colourful. Oh, and don’t ever apply using a selfie as your ID picture.
6. Double check before you press send, eliminate any spelling or grammatical errors. That is the main sign of professionalism. Get. It. Right.
7. The Guardian stresses that one should understand the job description clearly before applying. Clearly present your skills that match the requirements, and fill in the blanks with related and transferrable skills while upholding your honesty and integrity.
8. Include interests that are useful for the job in active language, for example: "I enjoy working in a team/ have excellent leadership skills" - and rather leave out irrelevant hobbies.
9. Make sure you are qualified for the job. Jobs.ac.uk noted that before you send out your CV, you should make sure it matches your interests, qualifications and skills. Otherwise, it’s just a big waste of time for everyone involved.
10. Always keep a compressed copy of your CV says studentbeans.com: some recruiters will ask for a shorter and more summarised version. Therefore, take your most important information and get straight to the point, keeping to one page.
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