As we approach the end of yet another year here in Exeter, it is fair to assume that a lot of students will be on the job hunt. Whether it be a part-time role alongside your studies, an internship, a placement or a graduate job (ahh, scary!), perfecting your CV is a really important step in securing the job you deserve.
Standing out from the crowd
One of the best pieces of advice I received when I first applied for professional roles was to tailor your CV to the industry that you’re applying for. For me, I am applying to roles in the Publishing industry, and I’ve made sure that my CV reflects my creative, literary and marketing experiences. For example, in my ‘Skills’ section, I’ve written up the software I’m competent in that is unique to the industry and demonstrated when and how I’ve used it.
In terms of the layout, this is such a personal thing. Speaking to Career Zone, we determined the most impactful layout for the jobs that I’ve been applying for. CV’s ideally should be two pages maximum, but I still think nothing looks neater than a single page – just make sure it’s readable! Ensure you choose a readable font and structure your CV clearly and cohesively.
Skills:
It goes without saying – don't lie in your CV: you don’t want a situation where you’re tasked with a project working with a software you’ve never used! Think about all the skills you have picked up in your academic and professional career thus far, and evidence why and how you are competent in them. Great soft skills include: Excel, CAD, Biblio and Photoshop, plus many more.
In terms of your experience, I categorise these as either ‘employment’ or ‘extra-curricular.’
Employment: paid and unpaid professional experience, followed by a brief summary of what you did, what you learnt and why it’s relevant.
Extra-Curricular: This is where you can put appropriate hobbies (blogging for a marketing role for example!),society responsibilities and volunteering.
To AI or not to AI...
Maybe it’s the English student in me, but use of AI in CV’s is not my cup of tea. However, if you are planning on using it, make sure to check for consistency, correct grammar and appropriate formality. Remember, employers read a lot of CVs, and they will be able to tell right away if you’ve used AI.
Not sure, just ask!
Be sure to use all of the brilliant networks we have here at Exeter to either check your CV or develop new skills to add to it. Career Zone is the ultimate place to get help for all areas of employment and professional development, so make sure to head to Handshake to book in your personal meeting.
Keep on going
Spent a lot of time applying for roles, and not heard back? It’s easy to feel despondent when this happens especially if you don’t get any feedback, or it was a role you really wanted. Don’t give up, the right opportunity will come your way soon enough.
And that’s it – I hope some of these tips are helpful. Good luck!