CS — 6.3. CV Length

Summary

This video offers essential tips for creating an effective resume, emphasizing the importance of clean formatting and strategic content placement. Candidates are encouraged to avoid duplication of experiences and to focus on achievements rather than duties. Including a profile section at the top helps recruiters quickly identify key skills and qualifications. The video advises limiting the experience listed to the past 10 years to prevent age discrimination and to keep resumes updated for each application. Overall, these guidelines aim to help candidates present their qualifications more effectively and stand out in the job market.

Takeaways

• 😀 Prioritize white space in your CV; it's acceptable to extend beyond one or two pages if necessary.
• 😀 Avoid redundancy by eliminating duplicate entries related to tasks and accomplishments for different jobs.
• 😀 Maintain a balanced layout by not cramming a full page of information followed by a quarter page.
• 😀 Use a single column format for a cleaner look; consider switching headings to be on top with information below.
• 😀 Include a profile or objective section at the beginning to help recruiters quickly scan your resume.
• 😀 Focus on relevant experience by listing only the past 10 years; up to 15 years for senior-level positions.
• 😀 Use achievement-driven vocabulary instead of words like 'duties' or 'tasks' to highlight accomplishments.
• 😀 Clearly demonstrate how your contributions exceed expectations and distinguish you from colleagues.
• 😀 Always keep your resume updated for each job application, avoiding the use of outdated versions.
• 😀 Tailor your summary to align with the job you're targeting for more effective applications.

Q & A

What is the ideal length for a CV?

A CV should not be crammed into one or two pages. It should include enough white space, and if more space is needed, it's acceptable to use an extra page.

How can candidates shorten their resumes?

Candidates can shorten their resumes by eliminating duplicate entries that repeat tasks and accomplishments for every job.

What formatting tips can help condense a resume?

Candidates can set narrower margins, use a smaller font (but not smaller than 11), and switch from two columns to one by placing headings on top with information below.

Why is including a profile or objective section important?

Including a profile or objective section at the start of the resume helps recruiters quickly scan the document and understand the candidate's goals, skills, qualifications, and experience.

How many years of experience should candidates list on their resumes?

Candidates should list only the relevant experience from the past 10 years to avoid age discrimination, but they can include up to 15 years for senior-level positions.

What type of vocabulary should candidates use on their resumes?

Candidates should use achievement-driven vocabulary and avoid words like 'duties' and 'tasks.' They should focus on listing achievements instead of merely describing responsibilities.

How can candidates highlight their contributions?

Candidates should demonstrate how they have exceeded expectations and performed better than their colleagues, emphasizing their contributions to the company and team.

How often should candidates update their resumes?

Candidates should never use a resume that is three to six months old. They should update their resume for every job application to ensure it reflects their most recent experiences.

What should candidates focus on in their resumes?

Candidates should focus on relevant experience, skills, and achievements that align with the job they are targeting, ensuring that their resume stands out to recruiters.

Why is it important to avoid excessive information on a resume?

Excessive information can overwhelm recruiters and detract from key achievements. A concise, focused resume is easier to read and more impactful.