As a job applicant you need to pass over at least two hurdles to land that dream job. Firstly, you need to make your application stand out enough to be called for interview. Secondly, you need to impress the company enough to be offered the role over any other interviewees.
In this article, we look at the first of those hurdles. In a market where we regularly get multiple applicants for every role, yet have limited resources and time to read through applications and CVs, what can you do to maximise your chances of us calling you for that first interview?
Whilst having a good CV is essential, you should also consider other ways you can increase your profile with us. For example, we really value having a recommendation from people we know who have worked with you before, so if you can get someone we know to refer you, do so.
It is important to understand that working for Projecting also means working for our clients. We are not only evaluating candidates as a fit for us, but also assessing how well we think you will be able to represent Projecting with our clients.
So, what are some of the things that Projecting hiring managers look for in a CV?
Professionalism and Attention to Detail
The saying, “First impressions are lasting impressions,” holds true for CVs. A well-crafted CV immediately conveys professionalism and attention to detail. One of the most noticeable aspects is formatting. Ensure your CV maintains a consistent format throughout, avoiding erratic fonts or colours that distract from the content. Consistency suggests that you are meticulous and capable of maintaining standards, a quality that we look for in our potential hires.
On the topic of formatting, we occasionally receive CVs in unconventional formats. Whilst these CVs are often more visual, most companies, including us, use systems that auto-process CVs which struggle with unconventional formats. We recommend sticking to more traditional formats.
Alignment with the Job Posting
We seek candidates who are the perfect fit for the role. If you don’t have the right experience and skills, your CV will be quickly discarded. To demonstrate your suitability, your CV should align with the job posting. Carefully review the job description and tailor your CV to highlight relevant experiences, skills, and qualifications that closely match the requirements outlined in the posting. This not only shows that you’ve done your homework but also positions you as an ideal candidate for the position.
Communication Skills and Conciseness
Effective communication is a key competency in the roles we look for as any person involved in a project needs to be a good communicator. Your CV serves as a sample of your communication abilities. Write your CV in a clear, concise, and well-structured manner. Avoid verbosity and ensure that your achievements and responsibilities are easy to understand. We particularly appreciate candidates who can convey complex information succinctly, as this skill is vital when interacting with stakeholders in a professional setting.
Comprehensiveness and Transparency
Transparency is vital in building trust with potential employers. Your CV should comprehensively cover your professional journey. Be sure to explain any employment gaps, short tenures, or unconventional career changes. Honesty and clarity in addressing these aspects demonstrate integrity and help employers understand the context behind your career choices.
In conclusion, put yourself in the shoes of the Projecting person who will be reviewing your CV. Would you be interested in meeting the person who has submitted this CV or is it missing something? Is it clear for someone who doesn’t know you or the companies you have worked at? Does it tick all the boxes that Projecting is looking for?