Updating your CV or resume is a task we often put off when we are happy in our current role. It lies dormant with no thought or attention in a file on the computer until the need arises. No matter where you are in your job search, and yes even if you’re not looking, the best time to review your CV is now. The benefits of keeping your CV ready for a potential new position include:
- Timing is of the essence when a new, amazing role arises. You’ll be forced to work quickly and possibly sacrifice quality or lose the window of opportunity when it opens.
- It’s easier to do when it’s fresh in your mind. Those certifications, awards, and accolades can be harder to recall and compile in retrospect years later. If you add it to your CV in real-time, you’re much more likely to accurately record the details.
- Opportunities and needs for new positions can pop up without warning. Change is not always something for which you can plan. Whether it’s a promotion, an unexpected layoff or a family need drawing you away from your current position, having your CV on tap will help you be prepared for anything and everything.
6 Tips for Creating a Winning CV That Stands Out from the Pack
Now that we’ve established the importance of keeping your CV up to date, let’s explore some insightful tips to help you create and maintain a CV that rises to the top of pile and lands you interviews for roles which support your career goals.
- 1. Keep it clean. Keep your CV formatting clean and simple. Don’t use bright colors or dark backgrounds that are hard to print and keep your font simple, like Arial or Times. Make sure the font is large enough to be easily read and prints nicely. There is no need to get too creative here, and in the case of the medical professional’s CV, less is more.
- 2. Include the facts, just the facts. It’s extremely important to showcase your talents, of course, but make sure all details shared are accurate. Exaggerations or embellishments might be sniffed out by a seasoned hiring professional or get aired out during the credential verification process. Being honest is always the best move.
- 3. Show some personality, but not too much. If you are an avid tennis player or volunteer at the local dog shelter, these types of personal details do show who you are outside of medicine. Keep them limited, however. Too much of a good thing can distract from the task at hand which is showing why you are a qualified candidate for the role in question.
- 4. Don’t underestimate the art of the humble brag. Don’t forget to include your recent training, certificates, award nominations and positive reviews. These types of acknowledgements show you are succeeding in the work you do. Not only do you have the years of experience, the schooling and title, you are providing quality care on a daily basis and it’s getting noticed.
- 5. Tailor when possible. It’s not always an option, but if you know the skills and experience that the role of your dreams requires, highlight your work in those areas on your CV. A tailored CV or resume is almost always more likely to catch the attention of the hiring manager.
- 6. List your soft skills too. Hospitals and medical facilities are seeking doctors and advanced medical staff who have soft skills. They want to see you demonstrate:
- Technology skills
- Good bedside manner
- Positive communication style with co-workers
- Shared vision
- Team-oriented philosophy
Keeping your CV ready to go for the day your job search begins is always a good idea. And, following these tips will help your CV stand out from the competition. Cejka Search is here to partner with you every step of the way on your career path.
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