Brendan Hope CV Writing

Wondering if you should tailor your CV for each job application? The answer is a resounding YES❗ Having viewed thousands of CVs as a professional CV Writer, here are 5 key do's and don'ts to keep in mind: ✅ Do's: 1️⃣ Keep it concise - aim for 2 pages or less whenever possible. 2️⃣ Customise your title to align with the job requirements. 3️⃣ Use the STAR formula (Situation, Task, Action, and Result) to showcase your achievements effectively. 4️⃣ Check and optimise your CV for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) - aim for a score of 70% or higher. 5️⃣ Opt for a simple, clean format that is easy to read and navigate. ❌ Don'ts: 1️⃣ Avoid using columns, cells, or text boxes, especially when applying directly online. 2️⃣ Don't dive straight into your professional experience without highlighting your key selling points first. 3️⃣ Steer clear of fancy fonts, intricate designs, and unnecessary graphics. 4️⃣ Skip using a bar or percentage system for showcasing your skills and languages. 5️⃣ Refrain from including unnecessary personal details like birth date or passport number. Curious about whether your CV hits the mark? Drop me a comment with "Free CV Review," send your CV via DM, and I'll provide my honest feedback. #CVtips #JobSearch #JobHunting

Having an ATS-friendly CV is essential for making a strong first impression. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) help employers screen resumes before they reach human eyes, so optimising your CV can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview. Here are five tips to ensure your CV stands out in an ATS: ☑ Use Standard Formatting: Stick to a clean and simple layout. Avoid using tables, columns, or graphics, as these can confuse ATS. Use standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman and maintain consistent formatting ☑ Incorporate Relevant Keywords: Tailor your CV to include industry-specific keywords from the job description. This helps ATS recognise that your skills and experiences align with the role. ☑ Choose the Right File Type: Submit your CV in a compatible file format, preferably PDF or Word. While most ATS can read both, some older systems may struggle with PDFs. ☑ Clearly label each section of your CV: For example, Work Experience, Education, and Skills. This not only improves readability for human reviewers but also helps ATS categorise your information effectively. ☑ Highlight Achievements Over Responsibilities: Focus on your accomplishments rather than just listing duties. Use metrics and specific examples to demonstrate how you added value in previous roles. We could release so many more tips, but, if you need help crafting an ATS-friendly CV or one that gets noticed, feel free to get in touch! #JobSearchTips #ATSFriendly #ResumeWriting #CareerAdvice #JobHunting

What is ATS? Well, we found a great article that explains just about everything you need to know. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) have become essential in today’s competitive job market, helping businesses efficiently identify, engage, and recruit top talent. From AI-driven candidate assessments to seamless onboarding, ATSs streamline the hiring process while improving the candidate experience. In fact, 86% of recruiters report hiring faster with ATS support. As remote work expands and digital processes evolve, ATS tools play a crucial role in connecting companies with broader talent pools beyond geographic limits. These systems are not just for Fortune 500 companies anymore; they level the playing field for organisations of all sizes by increasing efficiency, visibility, and brand reach in the job market. While AT is great for companies and recruiters, many of our clients come to us saying that even with more than sufficient experience, they don't get as many responses as they feel like they should. A lot of the time, we can see that their current CVs are not ATS-friendly. We specialise in crafting ATS-optimised CVs that help job seekers stand out in a competitive field. Have you considered how an ATS could enhance your hiring process? #ApplicantTracking #RecruitmentTech #JobSeekerSuccess #CVWriting https://lnkd.in/eHWC9YfF

Being overqualified can be an unexpected hurdle in job hunting. While having more experience or qualifications can seem like a benefit, it may lead employers to worry that you won’t be fully engaged, might seek a better-fitting role elsewhere, or have salary expectations above their budget. However, with strategic adjustments to your professional materials and mindset, you can present yourself as the right fit for the role and ease these common employer concerns. Here are five tips to help you tailor your profile if you're overqualified for a role: ✅ Highlight Relevant Skills Only: Focus on the skills that directly relate to the job you’re applying for. ✅ Adjust Your Resume Format: Consider using a functional resume that highlights achievements and skills rather than a chronological list of all roles. ✅ Use the Objective or Summary Section Wisely: In your resume summary, clarify your goals, especially if you are transitioning to a new industry or seeking to focus on specific skills. ✅ Explain Your Motivation in the Cover Letter: Employers often appreciate candidates who can clearly articulate why they’re interested in a role beneath their qualifications. ✅ Prepare for the “Overqualification” Question in Interviews: If the topic comes up, frame your interest positively by explaining how this role fits into your career plans. In today’s competitive job market, being overqualified doesn’t have to be a drawback if you approach it with a strategy. By adjusting how you present your experience, you can show hiring managers why you’re not only qualified but also the ideal candidate for the role. Have you ever adjusted your resume or interview responses to address concerns about being overqualified? What worked for you, let us know.

🌟 Navigating the Job Market When You're Overqualified 🌟 We recently came across an insightful article that addresses a common frustration many job seekers face: being overqualified for positions they genuinely desire. It is a challenge that can often feel unfair, why should you be penalised for having a wealth of experience? The article emphasises the concerns employers might have, such as fears of turnover and worries that an overqualified candidate may not find the role fulfilling. One key takeaway that I want to highlight is the importance of clearly expressing your intentions in your profile. If you are pursuing a role where you may be overqualified, it is crucial to showcase your enthusiasm and willingness to contribute. Our job search strategy sessions can help you navigate this delicate situation and position yourself as the ideal candidate, even for roles below your qualifications. What strategies have you found effective when applying for jobs that might be below your experience level? Share your thoughts in the comments! https://lnkd.in/dPJDeqga #JobSearch #Overqualified #CareerAdvice #ResumeTips #JobSeeking

🌟 Thought of the Day: The Power of First Impressions in Your Resume 🌟 Did you know that recruiters often spend mere seconds reviewing a resume? This highlights the importance of not only the content but also the presentation. Your resume is often the first impression you make on potential employers, so it’s essential to ensure it captures attention while remaining professional. ✅ Be Concise: Clearly communicate your key achievements and skills without overwhelming details. ✅ Showcase Your Brand: Use a consistent font and layout that reflects your professional identity and makes it easy to digest. ✅ Tailor Your Approach: Customise your resume for each application, aligning your experience with the job description to make it relevant and impactful. Remember, a well-crafted resume is your ticket to an interview—make every second count! What strategies do you use to create a standout resume? Share your thoughts below! #ResumeTips #FirstImpressions #CareerAdvice #JobSearchSuccess #ProfessionalBranding

When crafting your CV/Resume, selecting the right font can make a significant difference in how your qualifications are perceived. A clear, professional font ensures that your skills and experience stand out and are easy for recruiters to read—both digitally and in print. But with so many options, how do you choose the best one? ✅ Prioritise readability: Choose a simple, easy-to-read font like Arial, Calibri, or Helvetica. These fonts are clean and professional, making it easier for recruiters to skim through your resume. ✅ Keep it consistent: Stick to one font throughout your resume to maintain a polished and cohesive look. You can use bold or italics sparingly to highlight key sections, like your name or job titles. ✅ Use an appropriate font size: Stay within the 10-12 point range. A font that is too small may make your resume hard to read, while a font that is too large could make your document appear unprofessional. ✅ Avoid over-styling: While adding a touch of style to headings is fine, avoid using fancy fonts or intricate designs that might distract from your content or cause issues with applicant tracking systems (ATS). ✅ Test and get feedback: Print out your resume and share it with trusted peers or professionals to get their opinion on readability and overall layout. What looks good on screen may not translate the same way on paper. The right font can enhance your resume, but the wrong one could distract from your achievements. What fonts have worked best for you in the past? #ResumeTips #JobSearchAdvice #ProfessionalBranding #CareerSuccess #HiringInsights

📄 Choosing the Right Font for Your Resume 🎯 There is no shortage of opinions when it comes to selecting the best font for a resume, and we recently came across a great article that dives into some fantastic options. It is true that readability is key, especially when applicant tracking systems (ATS) are involved. Simplicity and professionalism are the name of the game, and fonts like Arial, Calibri, and Garamond are top contenders. However, in our experience, we rarely use any of these amazing fonts mentioned because we have found what we believe to be a true winner! Based on feedback and results, we have stuck with our preferred choice to help our clients stand out. What is your favourite font for resumes? 🖋️ Let me know in the comments! #ResumeTips #FontSelection #CareerAdvice #JobSearchSuccess #ProfessionalBranding https://lnkd.in/dvV7TqW3

The best way to stand out is by showcasing what you have accomplished in each role, not just listing job duties. By quantifying successes, you make your contributions tangible and compelling to hiring managers. As experts in crafting achievement-based CVs, we always ensure that our clients’ resumes tell their unique success stories, helping them shine in competitive job markets. What achievements can you highlight in your own CV? #CareerTips #ResumeWriting #JobSearch #ProfessionalDevelopment #Hiring

Your Resume Deserves to Shine: 5 Key Tips Your CV/Resume should tell your story of success. At Brendan Hope CV Writing, we ensure your CV reflects your full potential. Here are our top 5 tips for turning tasks into achievements: ☑ Focus on Achievements, Not Tasks: Listing duties is outdated. Highlight the impact you made by framing your responsibilities as accomplishments. ☑ Quantify Success: Numbers speak louder than words. Add measurable results wherever possible—be it growth percentages, revenue generated, or efficiency improvements. ☑ Keep It Relevant: Tailor each CV to the job you're applying for. Highlight the achievements that best match the role’s requirements. ☑ Highlight Leadership & Awards: Showcase moments where you took the initiative or earned recognition. These speak to your ability to lead and excel. ☑ Make It Concise & Impactful: Brevity is key. Stick to essential points, focusing on what sets you apart and why you’re the best candidate. Do you have one or two tips you would like to share? Let us know, we are always open to new ideas. For more advice on crafting a winning CV, reach out to Brendan Hope CVs today!