Find out what recruiters look for in a CV and use this insight to make your CV the best one they read!
Ever wondered what recruiters look for in a CV ? We’re about to give you our best resume tips from our Lionstep-Recruiters. Maybe you have just started writing your CV or already have one, either way these insights will help you address the most important points to look at, so you don’t overlook any vital details.
You might want to apply to 2 different roles. Adapt your CV to each specific role because one thing recruiters look for in a CV is whether it’s tailored or one that’s being used for many roles. A great way is to also think about adapting it to the industry of the company, by using specific keywords. You can search with google and type in “best resume keywords to use for JOB ROLE” or “best resume keywords to use for INDUSTRY”.
Go to google and type “best resume verbs for JOB ROLE (you are applying for)”, try to use these verbs within your CV. Don’t use verbs like “was” or “helped”, instead use actionable words, such as “managed”, “developed” or “launched”. Use each verb a maximum of 2 times.
“Launched 2 product features” is quantitative in some degree but it does not provide any context and anyone could have written this. Use numbers that explain why it is impressive that you did this.
Numbers help build credibility to your profile and provide great insights on your skills and actual experiences. It demonstrates that you tracked results and have thought about the work you have been doing and accomplished. Further, it shows that your role has had a high impact on the business and this is something that every recruiter is looking for.
For example, for a sales position:
“Managed 10 people to lead to $2 million in sales” – this does not provide enough context.
Instead, mention the actual change:
“Managed 10 people to lead annual sales from 300k to $2 million, while simultaneously expanding operations to 3 new countries.”
The CV should ideally be 1-2 pages. You can use an appendix but ideally it should not be too long. If you need help shortening it, we suggest: reviewing each item of your resume and asking yourself the question “so what?”, if the answer does not seem meaningful, then eliminate that item because it does not seem significant or likely that it contributes to your positive profile. Your CV should not come across as a memoir, or biography but rather as a piece of evidence, with arguments that prove you’re the best for the job.
Use the space wisely: If your graphics take a quarter of your CV, a recruiter might think, “don’t you have enough to say to take up the entire page?” Some colour and design can be nice, but only if it really helps deliver your information.
Don’t lie or use information in your CV, that if asked about in an interview, you cannot backup with a story: You don’t want to mention a skill or tool you can use, and in an interview if asked about it’s “oh, i haven’t used it in 3 years”. This would create a bad impression with the interviewer. So be prepared to answer questions regarding your CV information and be prepared to address how you learned or excelled from the items in your CV.
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