How to Create a Custom CV for Every Job Application - Fast!

Did you know that recruiters spend just 7.4 seconds reviewing a resume on average? As a recuruiter I have to review hundreds of resumes in a day, so I know how important it is to make your application stand out. That's why creating a custom CV tailored to the specific job you're applying for is crucial. In this guide, I'll show you how to tailor your CV to stand out and get more interviews!

Start with a clean format

Your first major task is to highlight the skills and experiences that align with the job description in a way that is easy to read. Once you get past the ATS, you have to pass the human review from both the recruiter and the hiring manager.

• Use ATS-friendly fonts such as Palatino Linotype, Arial, Calibri, Garamond, or Helvetica in 10-12 point size

• Maintain consistent formatting throughout the document

• Incorporate ample white space to avoid clutter

• Limit your resume to two pages or 750 words

• Use clear, standard headings to separate each section (e.g., "Work Experience" instead of "Career Achievements")

• Utilize simple bullet points for achievements and responsibilities.

• Don't try to use fancy fonts or colors, they will just make your resume harder to read.

  

  Use Keywords from the Job Description

95% of fortune 500 companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan resumes for relevant keywords. Incorporating these keywords is essential to passing the first screening. If you randomly incorporate them it wont read naturally and it will be easy to detect. One of the best ways to incorporate keywords is to use a tool like Speed Resume. It will scan the job description and highlight the keywords and automatically incorporate those keywords naturally into your CV in less than a minute.

Focus on including the keywords in the summary first and then in the work experience. Avoid loading them up in the skills section. Recuiters and hiring managers want to see critical skills in action.

Align Your CV with the Company’s Goals

Beyond just focusing on keywords, go a step further by aligning your CV with the company’s mission and goals. If you're applying to a company focused on sustainability, for instance, include projects or initiatives you've worked on that reflect that focus.

Employers want to see that you’re not just a fit for the role but also resonate with their values, objectives and culture.

Add a Personal Touch to Your Resume Summary

When crafting a resume summary, adding a uniquely personal touch can help you stand out from other candidates. Consider incorporating a brief anecdote or specific achievement that showcases your personality and aligns with your career goals. This could be an unconventional skill you've developed, a passion project that relates to your field, or a unique approach you bring to your work. If you're in software engineering, you might mention how your experience restoring classic cars has honed your problem-solving skills and attention to detail. This unique hobby demonstrates your ability to work with complex systems, troubleshoot issues, and see projects through to completion - all valuable traits in software development. The key is to choose something that not only sets you apart but also adds value to your professional profile. Remember, this personal element should be concise and relevant, serving to complement your core qualifications rather than overshadow them.

Conclusion

Customizing your CV for every job application can make the difference between getting passed over and landing an interview. By focusing on relevant experience, using job-specific keywords, and aligning your CV with the company’s mission, you increase your chances of standing out in a competitive job market. Take the extra time—it’s worth it!

Ready to level up your job applications? Start customizing your CV for every opportunity! Speed Resume