9 Smart Steps to CV Format that Works

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CV format is all about the right layout, organization, and structure. All these aspects and more will have a huge impact on one’s employment status. Out of at least 100 CVs received per one job listing, those with right CV format will get an interview. Find out about the best CV format and the appropriate job application filling below from the experienced CV company.

1. Consider the Right Use of Space

Think about the margins. Decrease the margin space to fit more details. Use the maximum space of the page, yet don’t overcrowd it with information. The most prominent information traditionally goes at the quarter top of the CV page. This personal information usually helps contact the applicant.

The best way to organize CV format is to put the appropriate amount of information on the page. Some recruiters will not read page two, so you have to interest them right away. To find out more about the CV pages, read this article.

2. Keep Contact Details to a Minimum

Professional CV format is about utilizing space relevantly. Minimize the amount of contact information. The more personal details you put in the top right corner, the further away you push significant data.

Don’t include the birth date and all of the phone numbers you own. Name, one phone number, e-mail address, and rough location will be enough. Better put this information in small size font. Note that 76% of CVs are discarded because of the unprofessional email address.

3. Have a Clear CV Section Division

Modern CV format traditionally consists of the following sections: personal information, employment history, education, professional qualifications, and skills. The order to put the sections in is variable. However, a student CV format would rather start with the skillset due to lack of experience in the field.

The way you name the sections and separate them from one another influences the CV’s readability greatly. The name of the section should stand out, so make it in bold type and a few sizes larger than the rest of the text. If you use subheading, embolden them as well. Use the border tool in the document to separate pieces of information.

4. Use Bullet Points

UK CV format doesn’t allow big chunks of text. It makes the CV look messy and unorganized. Information that can be broken into bullet points is better to list this way, e.g. job titles, job tasks, skillset.

Make it easier for the recruiter to single out important details and read your CV more efficiently.

5. CV Page Transitions Should Look Tidy

A CV UK format allows filling out CV forms online. This is the option that half of the applicants already use. In case you don’t have that option, you have to make your CV look professional. This means making the page transitions neat. You can break the section in two pages but don’t break the skillset or listing the accomplishments in two pages.

6. Use the Word Document at All Times

This particularly applies to the Europass CV format. Since you don’t know what kind of software the target company’s HR is going to use, send your CV in a Word Document format just to be sure.

Word document format is compatible with almost all other document applications. It’s easily editable. Either you can edit the document till it looks perfect, or the hiring manager may want to make some references and will need to use editing tools in your CV document.

7. Think of the Proper CV Name

This is the file name that the recruiter will see upon receiving your CV. The document name containing the word “draft” or a personal commentary from you isn’t professional.

You’d better add your name and surname and perhaps a job title. Make sure you write the name appropriately to what your ID says if you’re applying for a position outside the native country. This applies to the European CV format rules.

8. Always Check For Errors

41% of employers claim that they have received a CV with spelling or grammar errors. Make sure you don’t let an interview slip away because of one silly mistake.

9. Format the CV Appropriately

When browsing for CV format UK residents can see various options to draw up a chronological CV, a skills-based CV and even the hybrid of both. A chronological CV is an organized presentation of your accomplishments and qualifications. A skills-based CV focuses on abilities and their application. It is better to look at the company’s requirements in the job description before choosing one.

Create a LinkedIn CV in order to be closer to the potential employer and give him the chance to assess your savvy online. This is a perfect way to boost your chances of getting noticed by the employer, ensure a good result of the background check and show off your projects online.

When browsing on how to format a CV remember to also fill in the sections and the CV layout with relevant information. Make the CV readable and professional, but also furnish it with the great experience, outstanding achievements and marketable skills.

Learn how to write a CV introduction to make the job application effective.