5 tips to make your CV attractive to employers

The UK job market is currently extremely competitive and often landing a role can feel like pure luck. While there's certainly an element of sending in the right application at the right time, there are some things you can do to make sure yours is the right application.

Here are 5 tips to improve your CV and impress your future employer!

1. Use a clear layout

Before employers dig into the content of your CV they'll want to get a broad sense of you. By conveying information in a clear, concise manner you're inviting the hiring manager to begin scanning for pertinent information. This includes:

• Displaying your name and contact details near the top of the first page

• Using clear headings to distinguish between sections e.g. Education, Work, Volunteering

• Using bullet points to list out the skills and achievements of each job role

• Size 11 text in a common font such as Ariel

2. Incorporate core skills

Some skills are useful in any work environment. If you're interested in a broad range of roles and want to make your CV as versatile as possible, it would be beneficial to demonstrate a time you've needed to:

• Be organised

• Work as part of a team

• Work independently

• Have good communication skills

• Use basic computer skills

3. Demonstrate skills you've acquired through volunteering

If you're new to the workforce, struggling to find employment, or looking for a career change, volunteering can be a great facilitator. It can help you acquire the skills needed to get on the career ladder, whilst proving that you're willing and ready to work. Plus, there are loads of great benefits.

If you've completed any stage of your Duke of Edinburgh award, taken part in a corporate volunteering day, or engaged in micro volunteering then you will have some volunteering experience to talk about already.

If you're looking for volunteering opportunities in London, we have a wide range for you to choose from:

Charity Shop Volunteer (find your local)

Donation Sorting Volunteer

E-Commerce Volunteer

Volunteer Handyperson

Browse all opportunities.

4. Tailor your experience to the role you're applying for

Now that you have your core skills listed, compare them to the requirements for the role. Don't be afraid to re-word your experience so that it more closely aligns with the phrasing used by the hiring party. 

For example, if they're looking for someone who "Has good time-management skills" this falls under organisation. Refine your section on organisation to ensure it shows you have good time-management.

5. Double check your CV before sending it off

Employers are far more likely to shortlist a CV if it contains zero spelling or grammatical errors. By double, or even triple, checking your work before you send it off you're giving yourself a huge advantage.