How Not to Write a CV / Resume

Working in a company specializing in paper-free solutions has put me in many interesting situations. One particularly awkward situation that I find myself in more often than I’d like to admit is having to explain to people that just because my job involves being “paper-less,” it doesn’t mean I’m an expert on all things paper.

It’s surprising how many people assume that because I work in a company with “paper-free” in its slogan, I must know everything about paper. But let me clarify, I don’t create CVs or resumes. However, I do have some advice on what to avoid when writing your Curriculum Vitae.

Focus on Skills You Have, Not Skills You Want:

I’ve come across countless instances where people list abilities they hope to learn rather than the ones they have already acquired. Don’t write that you speak French at an intermediate level if you haven’t taken a French course yet. Take the course first, then include it on your CV.

Don’t Underestimate the Importance of a Cover Letter:

Many people spend far less time on their cover letter than they do on their CV. While they may recognize its importance, they may not realize that for some companies, the cover letter is just as crucial as the CV. Use the cover letter to demonstrate your knowledge about the company you’re applying to, your interest in the role, and what you can offer them. It’s an excellent opportunity to showcase your character.

This may sound contradictory, but it’s important to understand. While you may be hired for a specific skill, there may be occasions where you’ll need to go beyond your job description. Anticipate these situations and become proficient in them. This way, if the need arises, your employer will see you as a valuable asset to the company. However, this doesn’t mean you should try to be a jack-of-all-trades, as that is generally not well-received in any industry. Instead, show that you have expertise in one area but can also adapt to other tasks if necessary.

Good luck with your CV!

SignTech is an innovative paperless platform that creates and integrates forms and documents for completion and signing. For more information, visit http://www.signtechforms.com or email info@signtechforms.com.