It's crucial to stand out from the crowd of other applicants. Impress your potential employer with a CV that will go straight to the top of the pile Get your CV right D o you have a generic CV you simply send off whenever you spot a vacancy? That's not the way to achieve your goal. Tailor your CV to each job you go for and you'll improve your chances of success. There are many essential aspects of a CV, including a design that's easy to read with clearly labelled sections. In essence, ensure your CV makes it clear why you're the perfect candidate for this particular job and you'll put yourself ahead in the game. Use our five-point guide to create the perfect CV that no employer will want to ignore. 1. Keep it relevant Very few employers need to know about every part-time job you had as a teenager (unless it's useful for the role) and they definitely don't want the details of the month you spent finding yourself in a Thai beach resort. Keep it neat, easy to read and no more than two pages long. Include the experience and skills that are relevant to the vacancy you're applying for. 2. Cover it with a letter Every CV should be accompanied by a covering letter that is carefully worded to grab your potential employer's attention and make them want to read your application in full. According to reed.co.uk, as many as 40% of employers will discard a CV immediately if it doesn't come accompanied with a letter. In the letter, demonstrate that you have done your research and understand the company's culture, that you know what they're looking for and how you 38 /// JOBS & CAREERS /// jobsandcareersmag.comhttp://reed.co.uk http://www.jobsandcareersmag.com