About CV’s
Your CV should summarize your experiences and skills, significantly emphasizing those aspects that relate to the job. It provides a quick overview of who you are and what you have done, indicating for the reader what you could do.
Let everything you write be guided by these questions: what does this say about me and add to my application? Is it what the employer is looking for? Could this be said more persuasively or concisely? Can I evidence what I am writing or quantify my achievement?
Very little time will be devoted by a hiring manager to looking at your CV, probably around 40 seconds. Let that guide what you write and how you organize the information. Avoid using any words on your CV that do not achieve something. You want the reader’s attention to be completely drawn to the good stuff and not overwhelmed with information. A two page CV is perfectly acceptable and what we recommend. Europass style CVs are not welcomed by employers in Denmark.
Today’s CV extends well beyond what you send to the employers, to not just your LinkedIn profile but anything that can be found through a search engine. Assume that an employer will research you online. A good CV will direct their attention to what you want them to see: LinkedIn, a portfolio, blog, example work etc. Consider posting a few things prior to the interview on your social media that indicates your interest in the relevant industry or company values.
Producing a good CV is as much about doing things that are relevant to your career aspirations as it is about what you write. The more you can show that your experience is relevant to the role you are applying to the better. Although preferable, you don’t have to have worked in the same industry to which you are applying. What skills and knowledge do you have that is relevant or interesting for the employer?
Customize every time!
Aim to create a common thread throughout your CV that fits with the requirements of the job to which you are applying, emphasizing features of your experience that match the position requirements. Try to keep a regularly updated record of all your experiences.
The right structure for your CV?
The structure of your CV is less important than whether it is clear and concise. When written well a CV that is organized around your skills can be very effective. However, this can be difficult to achieve without unnecessary duplication of information and may leave the reader unclear about the journey you have. For students and young graduates we recommend the chronological style of CV. All CVs should give more information about your most recent experiences.
Focus on positive results
Your CV should explain the outcomes of your different responsibilities so the employer knows what you have achieved. The more specific and more quantitative the results you give the better. You can also provide links to examples of your work and recommendations from colleagues.
Add breadth to your CV with additional skills
It is worthwhile including additional ‘hard’ skills you have developed if they are not explained in your responsibilities. You will likely have done something interesting outside of studying that will have developed you as a person. Include these things that suggest a positive personal attribute, skills and accomplishment. You may well find that these are topics of conversation in the interview and help you build rapport. Avoid simply listing your interests (ie ‘reading, chess, baking….’), which adds little and might appear unprofessional.
Be honest
Never lie but do be persuasive, positive and confident. There shouldn’t be any gaps that might leave the reader with questions.
Ready to make a CV?
Great - you can find a CV-example here to get you started. Good luck!
