Five tips to make your CV stand out from the crowd

On average, a recruiter will spend just seven seconds looking at your CV before deciding whether you’re suitable for a job.

That’s a very short window of opportunity to make a good impression. So, your CV needs to shine.

Here are five simple ways to make your CV stand out from the crowd.

1. Adapt it for the job

Your CV isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ document. Sending a generic copy to every recruiter won’t cut the mustard.

Alter your CV for each role you apply for, using the job description, person specification, and any other information you can glean about the charity.

Sure, it’ll take time, but it’s better to send one carefully tailored CV, than hundreds that don’t represent your suitability for the job.

If you don’t, your CV may well be filed in the bin.

2. Keep it short & sweet

When it comes to your CV, less is more.

Cast a critical eye over the content. Is all the information relevant? Does an employer need to know you once babysat your aunt's puppy?

Your CV is a snapshot of your career – not an autobiography.

3. Make it easy on the eye

Your CV needs to be an effortless read. Keep it uncluttered with clear sections and titles, using bullet points to break up long paragraphs.

Bite-sized chunks are much easier to navigate than a wall of text.

4. Highlight your USP

Job hunting is a competitive business. For every application you submit, you’ll be up against lots of candidates with a similar skill set.

Your USP can set you apart. Maybe you’ve carried out some voluntary work in a fundraising department, or you keep a blog about fundraising.

Whatever unique experience you have, include it. It’ll help you to stand out from the crowd.

5. Back up your claims

Instead of listing your responsibilities for each role, highlight what you achieved.

For example, instead of saying ‘I helped raise funds for Charity X by writing funding applications’, say ‘I was solely responsible for writing 3 funding applications, which resulted in grants of £10,000 for charity X’.

Final Word

A CV is not a static document. It should evolve as you progress through your career. The more effort you put into it, the better equipped you’ll be to snag your dream fundraising job.

If you need some help honing your CV, give us a call on 020 3750 3111.