CVs. Why so serious?

In a world where digital platforms and professional networking sites dominate the job search landscape, I’m often asked if the traditional CV is still relevant. Are CVs truly necessary in today's job market, or are they an outdated relic of the past? Do we still need to take CVs seriously and what is their purpose?

First Impressions Matter: Your CV is often the first point of contact between you and a potential employer. The majority of advertised job opportunities request a CV to be sent to apply, serving as a snapshot of your professional background, skills, and experiences. Imagine your CV as first step towards getting an interview.

Demonstrating Qualifications and Experience: While platforms like LinkedIn provide a comprehensive overview of your professional profile, a CV allows you to tailor your qualifications and experiences to specific job opportunities. It provides a structured format for highlighting relevant skills, achievements, and career progression, making it easier for recruiters to assess your suitability for a role. Although I personally wouldn’t recommend having multiple CVs, having a basic template which you can tweak slightly to emphasise specific experience and skills you have in relevance to the role you are applying for can also save you a lot of time.

Customisation and Personalisation: Unlike online profiles, which often follow a standardised format, a CV can be customised to showcase your unique strengths, accomplishments and personality. You have the freedom to emphasise specific achievements, certifications, or skills that align with the requirements of the job you're applying for.

Attention to Detail: Employers view a well-organised and error-free CV as a reflection of your work ethic and dedication to excellence. Conversely, a sloppy or poorly written CV can raise red flags and hinder your chances of progressing in the hiring process. Proof before you send!

Complementary to Online Profiles: While online profiles and professional networking sites are valuable tools for showcasing your professional brand, they should complement rather than replace your CV. A CV provides a more comprehensive and structured overview of your qualifications, while online profiles offer additional context and insights into your personality and interests.

Again it really depends on your profession but CVs remain a cornerstone of the job application process and could well be the difference to securing an interview or not. There are many ways we can work together to be pro-active in your search but your CV is a great place to start!