It can be difficult to know where to start when you create your CV, however firstly you should decide what type of CV you want to write. Generally all CVs are variations of the below categories. They might be more technical or creative however the structure will be similar, so it’s a case of working out what’s best for you depending on the type of job you’re applying for and your current level of skill and experience.
Traditional CV
A traditional CV starts with your current job first and then the following ones listed in reverse chronological order. Most people will opt for a traditional CV, however there are a number of different situations where using a traditional CV is ideal:
- You’re applying for a promotion – If you’re applying for a promotion, whether it’s with your current employer or another business, giving prominence to your current role demonstrates that you have the skills required and your previous positions listed below show where you have come from. Essentially it shows that you’re ready for that next step!
- You’re hoping to move to a competitor – A traditional CV format works well if you’re applying for a role with a competitor of your current business, as it highlights your current employer which will likely capture the attention of the hiring manager.
- You want to show off your career history – If you have developed throughout your career from an entry level position to a higher level role, or you’ve gained a lot of experience with a wide range of companies then use a traditional CV to showcase that to a prospective new employer.
Skills-based CV
A traditional CV highlights your current role and work experience, however a skills-based CV, sometimes referred to as a functional CV, takes more of an overall look at your skills and experience and breaks it down in to key skills. Writing a skills based CV requires you to pull 3-5 key skills from the job description and use examples from your career history, education and general life experience to show how you meet the pre-requisites of the role. A skills-based is ideal when:
- You have limited experience – For example it might be your first professional job and you don’t have a lot of experience to focus on, so using this type of CV means you can draw on your education and the work experience you do have to show your transferable skills.
- You’re changing careers – Demonstrating your transferable skills is also useful if you’re changing careers. Use the key skills section to show how your varied experience can translate to the job description for a greater chance of landing an interview.
- You’re a recent graduate – A skills-based CV gives you the opportunity to really highlight your education. Demonstrate the different modules you studied and show the knowledge you’ve gained to deal with the demands of the role you’re applying for.
Combined CV
You might look at the different types of CV and feel that you want to use a little bit of both which is where a combined CV comes in. This might include a condensed key skills section initially and then move on to your current role and responsibilities. A combined CV can be useful when you want to show an employer that you offer more than just the skills from your current role, for example if you run a sideline business or have a hobby that has given you skills relevant to the role you’re applying for.
Choosing the right type of CV can make all the difference when it comes to trying to land that all important interview. Get advice from your recruitment partner on which they feel is the right type of CV for you so you can be sure you’re highlighting your skills and experience in the best possible way.
We cover positions at all levels within Accountancy, Finance and Human Resources and work with businesses across Yorkshire. Whether you’re looking for a temporary, interim or permanent role, let us help you find the opportunity you’re looking for. Call 01904 208065 or email admin@optimumrecruitment.co.uk
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