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Ready to tackle a new challenge? Haven\u2019t updated your CV in a few years? Here\u2019s some tips on making sure your resume sits at the top of the pile.<\/em><\/p>\n Length<\/strong><\/u><\/p>\n As a general rule of thumb your resume won\u2019t be read for more than 20 seconds. If you\u2019re lucky. Keep it under 2 pages if possible, or 3 at the most (if your experience is significant). Leave out the white noise \u2013 the hiring manager doesn\u2019t need to know details like your DOB, marital status or favourite pasta sauce.<\/p>\n Job Title<\/strong><\/u><\/p>\n Different companies tend to have different titles for the same role. Make sure yours is amended to reflect whatever they\u2019re looking for, not whatever your old employer called it. It\u2019s a simple tip to make sure you\u2019re not discounted before they get to the meatier details.<\/p>\n Bullet Points<\/strong><\/u><\/p>\n Keep the structure of your CV to simple, targeted and succinct bullet points, anchored by keywords drawn from the job description. A lot of companies employ software that scans your resume for keywords \u2013 don\u2019t be afraid to hammer these home, using the job spec as your reference.<\/p>\n When it comes to structuring your resume, try to frame it around your accomplishments, rather than your responsibilities. Employees want to see the impact you\u2019ve had, not the minutiae of your day-to-day operations in previous roles.<\/p>\n Be Selfish<\/strong><\/u><\/p>\n While humility and teamwork is to be applauded in the workplace, this is the time to talk yourself up. The hiring manager wants to see what you\u2019ve done and what you\u2019re capable of, not the dynamics of the larger team. Try to emphasise the things you\u2019ve built, created, implemented, designed, architected, developed, etc.<\/p>\n The WOW Factor<\/strong><\/u><\/p>\n Candidates often leave out the things that make them stand out. Side projects, industry awards, hackathons\u2026 Little bits of (relevant) trivia help to highlight your passion, willingness to learn and your innovative spirit.<\/p>\n