The Do's and Don'ts of CV Writing

When writing a CV, there are plenty of do's and don'ts which could affect your CV reaching the 'yes' or 'no' pile.

In our latest blog, we take a look at some of the most important rules which you should consider during the recruitment process.

Do’s

Start your sentences with verbs rather than writing in the first person

For example, instead of saying ‘In the past, I have worked on X project’’, you could say ‘Working on the X project…’.

Use bullet points

This is a good way to break the information on your CV into chunks and will make it more digestible for the reader.

Submit your CV as early as possible

If the job advert attracts too many applications, it is possible that an employer could bring the closing date forward. Make sure you have your application in early to avoid this happening!

Show your personality

As much as the skills and experience are the most important part of your CV, a hiring manager will also want to know if you will fit into their company culture. This will become more apparent at the interview stage, however there is no harm in injecting personality into your CV too.

Include ‘power words’

Words such as ‘achieved’, ‘launched’, ‘thrived’ will make an impact and pack a punch as a hiring manager reads through your CV.

Don’ts

Use unnecessary jargon

Using jargon unnecessarily could make it come across as though you are trying to impress the reader. You should only use jargon if it is listed in the job description and relevant to your application.

Overcomplicate your CV

Your CV should be uncomplicated and flow seamlessly, documenting your skills and experience as the hiring manager progresses. A hiring manager shouldn’t feel confused by the information which you are giving them.

Explain why you left previous positions

Unless it is important to your application, at this stage, it is not necessary to detail why you have left previous jobs. If a hiring manager wishes to learn more about your career history, they can ask you this during the interview stages.

Apply for one job at a time

Applying for jobs is a numbers game; the more jobs you apply for, the more chance you have of being invited to an interview. Even if you reached an interview stage and you weren’t successful, all interview experience is great practice.

Forget to include a cover letter

You should always include a cover letter to introduce yourself and state your reasons for wanting to apply for their role. A cover letter is similar to your personal statement but it allows you to elaborate on key points which could help your application.

Who is Spencer Clarke Group? 

Since 2017, we've been changing the face of recruitment. From our employees, to the way we do business, to the culture within our office, we're determined to make a difference and create a positive impact on everyone around us.

Recruitment to us isn't just about matching candidates and clients; we’re passionate about finding candidates the perfect job which has the ability to boost their salary and standard of living, better their work life balance and improve their mental health. 

Similarly, we understand the impact which an experienced and skilled employee can make to a business and we love seeing clients thrive through the hard work of candidates which we have placed with them. 

We operate in two sectors:

Private Sector

Public Sector 

In eleven specialisms:

Accountancy & Finance

Education & SEND

Construction, Trades & Labour

Healthcare, Social Care & Nursing

Housing

Corporate Functions & Business Support

HR & Workforce Development

IT & Digital

Property & Asset Management  

Planning, Development & Regeneration 

Highways, Infrastructure & Engineering

If you’re searching for a new role, why not visit our job page to take a look at the latest opportunities? Alternatively, upload your CV and one of our experienced consultants will contact you when a relevant opportunity becomes available. 

If you’re struggling to fill a role, why don’t you give us a call on 01772 954200 to see how we can help? One of our consultants will be happy to listen to the challenges which you are facing and advise on the best possible solution for you.