5 tips for a tailor-made CV

Your CV is your first chance to attract the attention of your future employer. Those who want to be quick simply send the same CV to multiple organisations. But there are better ways to impress your potential employer.    

Matching your CV to the position you are applying for is a great start. Swiss recruitment specialist Robert Walters shares 5 tips on how to tailor a CV quickly and easily.  

Tip 1: Read the job advert carefully  

Firstly, it is essential to read the job description or advertisement thoroughly. That way, you can check whether the core skills associated with the job are also part of your talents. If you feel that the job does not really suit you, it is better not to apply. 

If you feel the job is for you, but your CV is not quite up to scratch, feel free to edit it. Suppose the company is looking for a candidate with ‘strong interpersonal skills’, clearly indicate how you have developed these skills. Put these first, so they stand out immediately.  

Tip 2: Check the organisation's website and social channels  

Not only does the vacancy text contain important information, but you can also find a lot of interesting information on your potential employer's website and social media channels. Can you find the values and norms or the corporate culture there? For example, if team building is an important part of the company culture, feel free to mention your membership of the local sports club on your CV.   

Tip 3: Look for similar jobs  

By looking for similar jobs, you can broaden your knowledge. After all, job ads don't always go into great depth about their expectations.

If you can then compare similar positions and the skills involved, you will immediately know better what is expected and can also better tailor your CV accordingly.  

Tip 4: Consider the sector  

Maybe you don't meet all the job requirements, but you do have previous experience in the same sector. If so, mention these in your CV. So, experience in the same job is not necessarily a requirement. If you are new to the sector, state clearly in your CV what exactly attracts you to the job. That way, recruiters will see that you are a motivated candidate who has put effort into the CV.   

Tip 5: Rely on recruiters  

Not sure (yet) which direction you want to take with your career? Or what steps do you need to take to reach your goal? Then know that there are specialised recruiters who recruit exactly for your area of interest. They can also help you highlight your key skills on your CV. Do not hesitate to seek the help of a specialised recruiter. That way, you will already be one step closer to finding the ideal job! 

Keen to know more?

Discover more valuable career advice and unlock new opportunities with our tips. Looking for a new job? Explore our job vacancies and take the next step in your professional journey.