You will probably apply for a range of roles during your job search – and having multiple CVs can help to speed up applications.
Here are our top tips to create a CV that makes a good first impression.
Why you need multiple CVs
Employers are busy people who read multiple CVs when they are hiring. You need to grab their attention quickly – and include the relevant information they are looking for.
You can do this by tailoring your CV to the job you are applying for. If you are applying to a customer service job, make sure your CV highlights any similar roles you have had.
It can be time-consuming creating a new CV for each role you apply for. That is why it is useful to have more than one CV ready to go. You could have one for each industry you are interested in or different job roles you would like to do.
Make sure you label each CV clearly, so you know which is which – or create a folder for each job role or industry. You can also add a customised cover letter to these folders too, so it will make each application quicker.
The power of keywords
Some employers may be so busy that they automate part of their CV checking. If your CV does not mention a specific skill or qualification, you might get overlooked.
A customer service job might filter CVs for keywords like “conflict resolution” or “problem solver” – qualities that are valuable in any customer-facing job. CVs that contain these keywords will be moved to the top of the list.
Make sure you place keywords in each of your CVs. Look through the job advert and highlight the important words and phrases, then make sure you include them in your CV.
Put your best foot forward
There is no limit to how many CVs you can have. Many people will have two or three, each tailored to a different sector or industry they are looking for jobs in – but you can have as many as you want.
Just remember to check which CV you are using before you send it! Submitting your business administration CV for a hospitality role will make you look unorganised and uninterested – and you might miss out on being considered.
