Writing a CV is a difficult task, but knowing what the employer wants to see is probably the hardest part. You could write a perfect error free CV but still fail to get an interview, and one of the reasons why could be that your application lacks personality.
It’s easy to get so focused upon listing all the achievements, skills and qualifications that we forget the importance of personality and creativity. The employer sometimes wants to see some individuality, and a unique approach to CV writing to stand out from the crowd. Here’s how you can do that:
Don’t be afraid to be lighthearted on your CV
When the hiring manager has to read hundreds of CVs all day, one of the best ways to lighten their mood and become memorable is to add a little humour to your CV. You may think that this is risky and could come across as unprofessional, but if you keep it appropriate and subtle, you could win them over instantly.
Before you send off your CV you should have it checked by friends and family to make sure it works. If your joke offends or even confuses the hiring manager, your chances of getting an interview could be over.
Remember, you are taking a risk by dropping a one-liner into your CV or résumé. So ensure you keep it clean, appropriate, and non-offensive. Your aim is to make a memorable impression and to bring out your personality. Hopefully it will make for a great conversation starter at the interview!
Add an Easter egg
Having an Easter egg hidden within your CV is a great way to let your personality shine through, and could just land you an interview. An employer is not just looking for someone who ticks all the skills boxes, and bringing out your personality on your CV is a great way to add a little something extra to your application.
It could be just the one word or phrase that you change ever so slightly, but it will aim to grab the reader’s attention. So rather than opting for an obvious joke on your CV, you could instead drop a little Easter egg in there.
Your personality doesn’t just need to shine through on your CV, and the importance of this at the interview stage is immeasurable. Here are 3 ways to bring out your personality in a job interview.
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