YO U R C V How to write the perfect CV Nail your application to increase your chances of making a great impression from the off E very employer is looking for a specific candidate with a certain skill set. According to a study by job search site theladders. com, your CV has just six seconds to impress a recruiter - if it's too generic, it will take too long for them to spot what you're offering. While it's tempting to write a generic CV and send it off in as soon as you see a job you like, don't! Ask yourself, "What is the job I'm applying for?" and make sure your application is targeted to the job in question from the very start. The basic rules Plenty of websites can guide you through writing an impressive CV. However, it's important to remember these basic rules: * Keep your CV neat, easy to read and no more than two pages long. * Tailor your experience and skills to the vacancy you're applying for. * Emphasise relevant achievements. * Use powerful, active words such as "supervised", "created" and "transformed". * Avoid phrases such as "team player" and "hardworking". Provide real-life examples of these skills instead. Be engaging One way to make your CV stand out is to make it visually engaging. Take your cue from creatives applying JOBS & CAREERS /// 43