The Power of the CV

Morna Metzger of Metzger Search & Selection highlights the importance of having a well written/presented CV and explores how doing it right will potentially open doors to new employment.

It all begins with a CV. A rather obvious proclamation of the recruitment process, some may think, but not according to our team of recruitment specialists at Metzger. As much as it may sound like common sense to the meticulous and well-prepared, poorly presented CVs are stopping candidates getting on in the cleaning and support services industries.

The marketplace has become client driven and if candidates are not presenting themselves professionally at that first stage, then they are doing themselves a disservice. Another potential barrier to interview is that some candidates are failing to tailor their skills on their CV to match the description of the job they’re applying for. It is understandable that cleaners, for example, may have moved up the ranks in their careers with good training at one/two companies, and may not have needed to have presented their CVs over the years. However, if they are looking to move on out of their current positions, it is vital that they give themselves the best chance of being interviewed by representing themselves properly in a well-presented CV. It is the window for them to showcase their skills/background to potential new employers. As one of Metzger’s directors, Lorraine Thomas, has said: “Treat finding a job as a job!”

Making sure that all the relevant information on your work history is properly presented is crucial, so don’t forget job titles, roles/responsibilities, achievements, qualifications and use of bullet points. Presenting your employment history in a clear and succinct way is paramount to gaining an opportunity to meet with a potential employer at interview level.

There are some companies who will charge anything from £80 – 200 to re-write a CV, but that is a luxury that not everyone can afford, so getting back to basics on the CV is the best place to start. I believe that injecting a little passion into a CV never hurts. While professional history is key, getting a feel for who you are and what makes you tick gives the potential employer a feel for you.

Indeed, my heart is lightened when I read a good CV as you really get the sense that the person has their head screwed on, are focussed, professional and know what it is that they want to do. Once a good CV has been accepted by Metzger, the next stage of the process is that they are interviewed by a consultant, and if successful at that stage they would be referred to the client. Again, at each stage of the recruitment process a candidate should use preparation and planning as a tool to enhance the likelihood of getting the job. Another important thing to remember is that companies will interview people based on the skills outlined in the job spec so paying particular attention to skills outlined is a must.
I would advise those looking for new work to spend time on making sure their CVs are up to scratch and putting a little effort into how it is presented through the font sizing and styles. Ask for a second opinion and seek some help if you need it. A Curriculum Vitae or a Resumé should tell the reader everything they need to know about your work experience, skills and qualifications.

Here are some key CV points to remember:

• Layout – It should look well laid out/easy to read
• Format – fonts should be similarly matched, bold/underlined text uniformed
• Spelling/Grammar – all should be correct
• Length – 2/3 pages maximum
• Employment History restricted to past ten years, include explanations for “gaps”
• Evidence of progression/responsibilities

Once a candidate has done the appropriate amount of research for an interview there are a few basic but important things to remember – appearance must be smart. Candidates should pay attention to hygiene, making sure they’re clean and odour free with clean, ironed clothes and polished shoes. We may be going back to basics here, but you would be surprised!

Employers like to see that potential employees look after themselves, that they are fit and healthy and are up to the job. Candidates should avoid exposure of multiple tattoos and piercings as whether they like it or not, they will be judged by their appearance.

Go into an interview armed with questions. Be aware of the key performance indicators (KPI) of the role and show interest. Ask about the company history but know about the company’s positioning, their competitors etc. Let employers know why they should choose you for the role. Don’t assume that because your CV may show a proven track record in what they are looking for that they will take your word for it – an employer will want you to describe situations where you played a pivotal part in bringing success to the business.

An applicant will often be asked to give examples of where he/she turned a bad situation around or any systems/processes you may have implemented to a company’s advantage. Go armed with plenty of examples.
Employers will look for people who show passion, energy, commitment and an intelligent understanding of their industry. Be aware of your transferrable skills that could apply to the new role you’re applying for. Be able to prove how you’ve bettered yourself – a candidate who has gained qualifications in areas such as H&S or IOSH will stand out above those who haven’t.

Evidence of established networks is another area that companies may be looking for, particularly in a sales candidate. For example, if an employer was looking for a sales person in London, they could be asked to name a number of clients they have worked with in the past year.

In higher level positions, companies will usually want someone who can’t just do the job, but someone who is visionary and can work strategically and proactively. They will look for evidence of career progression in senior role applicants. For those who haven’t been interviewed in a long time it is worth getting some professional tips and to practise role playing.

All in all, remember to apply the appropriate amount of effort into job hunting and don’t forget to get the basics right as first impressions count. Happy hunting!

ends

As published in CHT magazine 2010.

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Ceris Burns – Ceris Burns International   t: +44(0)1825 714329  
e: ceris@cbimarketing.com   www.clean.cbimarketing.com