7 tips for a great CV
Your CV is often the first impression a prospective employer will have of you. It is therefore crucial that it clearly represents the best of your skills and experience. Using our top tips below, you will be able to ensure that your CV stands out and can open the door to the next step in your career.
Describe your key skills and knowledge
Listing your knowledge of specific software or regulations such as AutoCAD, TotalStation or BCAR will allow hiring managers to quickly identify candidates that meet key hiring criteria. Therefore, you can differentiate yourself by providing these.
List your qualifications and professional
memberships
Listing a degree/diploma or membership of a professional body such as Engineers Ireland reinforces your expertise and adds gravitas to any application. These details could set you apart from other candidates.
Detail your project experience
Providing information on projects you have been a part of including values, duration and your specific role reinforces your knowledge and value to a new company. For example, stating that you managed 5 subcontractors on an 8-storey, €30m project built on a brownfield site for a leading retailer from 2017 to 2019 better reflects your knowledge than just saying “Retail project 2017-2019”
Showcase your achievements
Demonstrate the difference you made to a previous employer or positive character traits that are transferable. A Safety Officer reducing accidents on site by 10% or an Engineer being a part of an award-winning project shows excellence in your field.
Make sure it is easy to read
Use a logical layout and consistent style throughout your CV. This will look better at a glance and be easier to read by a hiring manager. Work backwards from your most recent experience and use bullet points where possible as long paragraphs can appear off-putting. For a graduate with no relevant work experience, it is advisable to start with your education details.
Keep it up to date
Make sure that your CV is up to date and accurately reflects your professional experience and current seniority level.
Ensure there are no mistakes
Make sure that you have thoroughly read through your CV and removed any mistakes. Having another person look over it will confirm the accuracy of the writing and ensure that you come across as professional as possible.
