If you’ve made the decision that 2022 is the year you focus on your career and find the perfect new job, then you might be thinking about updating your CV in the next few weeks.
But, if you’ve been working in an industry that’s been impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic, and work has been a little bit hit and miss this year, you might be wondering where to start. How do you conduct your job search in the wake of the pandemic? How has your profession changed over the past two years? And how can you make sure your CV reflects this?
You’ve no doubt had countless questions along this line, but don’t worry, we have you covered with our top tips to update your CV.
Tip 1: Emphasise your change management experience
Being able to manage change and adapt to changing circumstances, was once seen as a soft skill, but it is becoming increasingly important to employers. Many organisations have had to adapt quickly as the pandemic forced their businesses to change.
As a result, many employers have a newfound appreciation for employees who have change management experience or simply show the right mindset to adapt to change quickly.
So, if you have ever had to adapt your own working practices quickly and successfully in response to challenging circumstances – especially if this involves implementing new technology or managing various stakeholders – then this should be highlighted on your CV. The experience you will have gained is invaluable and demonstrates your resourcefulness and ability to respond well to change.
Tip 2: Update your CV with any new skills learnt
Make sure you keep your CV up to date with any new skills you’ve learnt recently.
Updating your CV with any newly-acquired expertise shows both your commitment to independent learning and initiative. It can also help show employers that you have transferable skills that will be useful in your new role.
Tip 3: Remove outdated information
As a general rule, you can remove an old piece of information each time you add a new piece of information to your CV. Remove old jobs that hold no relevance to your target position to free up space for information that's more pertinent to your career aspirations. As you progress further in your career, you might consider removing your high school achievements and only listing your degree-level qualifications. This can make space for you to highlight more professional accomplishments that may be more impressive to recruiters.
Tip 4: Focus on your achievements
While it's good to provide a summary of your duties, so employers understand the day-to-day tasks you're experienced in handling, it can be better to focus on highlighting your relevant achievements. With so many candidates capable of carrying out the same range of duties, employers want to know what additional value you can bring to the role. Impress potential employers by describing the impact you had on your previous organisation.
When listing your achievements, try to quantify them by providing concrete facts and figures. For example, if you helped to streamline a process within the workplace, provide the percentage increase in efficiency or the amount of money you saved the company. If your professional experience is limited or you're a recent graduate, you can highlight your academic achievements instead. Consider any awards you received, a high-grade average or a scholarship you received. These are all impressive accomplishments that could impress potential employers.
Tip 5: Check your contact information
Don't forget to make sure that your contact information is up to date each time you refresh your CV. If you have recently moved, make sure your current address is listed and ensure that telephone numbers are correct. It's also worth considering whether your email address is suitable for professional communications. If you're using an old email address that may be deemed unprofessional, setting up a separate email address specifically for your job search could be beneficial
Tip 6: Work with a lifelong recruitment partner
When it comes to road-mapping your future career and brushing up your CV, working with your consultant will be vital. As experts on the world of work, they are best placed to advise you on the skills you should try to capitalise on, which skills are most in-demand and which are most likely to be emerging amidst the current challenges.
A recruiter will also be able to provide you with valuable interview coaching and advice about how to frame your experience against the current job landscape on your CV. Do remember that exclusivity with a particular recruiter is crucial, as it will allow you to build a relationship with them, leaving them best placed to secure the right opportunity for you.
As your lifelong career partner, London Staffing Solutions is here to help you every step of the way and your success is our top priority throughout your career.
If you’re thinking of starting your job search, make sure you have a partner beside you to help. You can get in contact with our specialist recruitment team on our website, by calling 020 7101 1633 or popping into our London Paddington office (find us here). As a lifelong career partner, we are with you every step of the way as you work towards your future career goals.