6 easy ways to make your CV stand out

Are you graduating this year? Or are you on the lookout for a new challenge? Spoiler alert: Even if you’re being spammed by recruiters on a daily basis, you’re probably going to need a CV.

We decided to make it fun and selected these 6 GIFs to help you get started.

#1 The six second rule

A recruiter looks at a CV for only six seconds on average (even we were surprised by this number), so first impressions matter. Make sure that yours is structured and stands out. Using a graphic design tool like Canva might help you in this process.

#2 (Try to) be structured

Structure is important. This will help the person looking at your CV to asses it more quickly and thoroughly. Here’s a small list of segments (next to your name and contact details of course) you should try to include:

• A (professional looking) picture
• Education
• Previous experiences
• Hard skills
• Personality traits

#3 Keep it short and sweet

Even if your CV is well structured and looks great visually, try to keep those six seconds we mentioned earlier in mind. You’re writing a CV, not a novel. Try to keep it under two pages.

#4 Go easy on the fonts

Readability is key. Even if you love Comic Sans, try to stick to something such as Arial, Verdana, Calibri or Times New Roman.

#5 Check, check & double check

You never get a second chance to make a first impression. If you think you’re done, you’re probably not. Make sure to check (and double check) for spelling mistakes. It might also be a good idea to let a friend or family member go over it as well. Chances are they’ll spot something that was staring you right in the face.

#6 Always send a PDF

We regularly receive CV’s in a Word format. This is a huge no-go. Always send a PDF, always.

Up to you

Now you got the basics, it’s up to you. If you’re not completely sure of your CV, feel free to send one of our Tech Talent Scouts a quick LinkedIn message. They’re happy to help out and give you all the professional advice you need.

And by the way, Exellys is always on the lookout for IT, Science & Engineering talent so if you spot anything on our jobsite that sparks your interest, apply. We’re looking forward to having a look at your CV for far more than six seconds!

About Exellys

Exellys is a Tech Talent Incubator. We match ambitious companies with the finest tech talent. Are you ready to drive the innovations of tomorrow? Ready to make an impact and become a future-fit digital leader?

Whether you are a graduate or (young) professional, Exellys will unlock your full potential by guiding you to a challenging work environment that perfectly matches your personality, expectations and ambitions.

On top of that, you are enrolled in one of our very own training and coaching programs (based on your personal and professional ambition and experience). This means that, while working as an Exellys consultant, we are helping you to bridge your ambition to excellence.

Through intensive training and coaching, you’ll gain the essential skills, competencies and knowledge necessary to become the highly effective professional you aim to be.

Become an Exellyst and get in touch with us today!