Are you currently looking for a new job or considering a career change? If you want to work in middle or senior management, here are some practical tips on how to improve your CV. Careerealism.com recently published an article describing in detail how to tailor a CV to the needs of a dream managerial role. A brief summary appears below.
1. Include keywords
You have probably heard that recruiters sort out CVs in databases or ATS systems based on keywords. Every industry and every job role has its own keywords. Your CV should therefore include the final "keywords" section in which you write 12-15 words most related to the specific job. At the same time, however, keywords should also be included in the text of your CV when you describe your experience.
2. Use the job title as the title of your CV
First, it will add keywords into your CV and, second, those reading your CV will feel they are looking at a CV of the right candidate. When recruiters read your CV, they will not see a strange name but the manager they are looking for.
3. Continue with a tailor-made summary
The summary at the very beginning of your CV serves briefly to describe yourself and your career. It should always be tailored to a specific job offer. Give the right keywords and emphasise the right skills. Summarise which industries you have worked in, how large companies you have worked for, how big teams you have led or how big budgets you have managed. Describe your leadership and communication style. Mention strategies you have created and implemented. Name your greatest career achievements. For example, you may write: Reached a profit increase of four medium-sized companies from zero to ... within six months.
4. Explain the context of your career development
Describe the biggest challenges you have faced in different roles. In the context of each position you have held, clearly explain whether it was a promotion or a special project. Highlight the skills you needed for the roles, the goals with which you entered new roles and the results achieved. Be as specific as possible: give numbers and focus on the strategic context of your successes. At the same time, try to keep the CV short.
5. Connect your education and development with leadership
Do not mention only the university you attended. Include relevant training courses, certificates, internships, etc. Any experience with leadership may prove relevant. Do not be afraid, therefore, to mention volunteer projects, your membership in non-profit or professional organsations or the awards you have received in connection with your managerial achievements.
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