CV Preparation Tips

CV Preparation Tips

February 08 2019

Every interview will go through your CV / experience at some point and in some way. 

One of the surprising stumbling blocks that we would see is a lack of prep around the actual CV. 

Knowing your CV well might seem like a given but sometimes it can be the very thing that trips you up. 

Here are some CV preparation tips to give you the best chance of success in your next interview.

But first . . .

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Ok, let's get into the main topic . . .

CV Preparation Advice

Make sure to review your resume as part of your interview preparation.

Cover your bases by making sure you have reviewed these areas:

1. Know your dates – you would be surprised how often people stumble through employment dates / tenure. Not being precise in this is not the end of the world but being precise raises no red flags.

2. Focus on the detail – if it is on your CV, you could be asked about it. That line you have about being involved in a project or your interest in falconry, you could be asked about it in detail so make sure you have prepared an answer.

3. Understand your moves and gaps – why did you leave somewhere to go somewhere else? Why did you move laterally? Why is there a gap on your CV from when you took a few months off to travel? Gaps and moves are standard questions in interviews so you should be ready for them.

Resume Prep

4. Education is still important – regardless of your experience and level, people are always surprised when they are asked about their Leaving Cert., choices made in college, etc. Although not always discussed, you should be prepared to talk about it. 

5. Anticipate skills gaps – your interviewer(s) will have gone through your CV and will have a good idea of any skills gaps. You can easily do the same by being forensic about reviewing the spec and identifying areas you need to work on. Skills gaps are completely normal and expected for every role, it is important that you can demonstrate an ability to overcome and learn new things. Adaptability is a key skill in today’s environment.

Like our guide on researching the company, reviewing your CV before an interview is something that should form part of your standard interview prep. 

If you need some help, don't hesitate to get in touch with us here at Top Tier Recruitment.

Best of luck!

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