7.4 seconds is the average time spent reviewing a CV! Make those seconds count by following our simple tips below.


We know that building your resume can be a challenging task. If you've been around the block a few times, you know that it is almost impossible and sometimes even painful to squeeze your experience into a one-pager. On the other hand, if you've recently started your career, you may find it challenging to populate your CV with meaningful experiences.

Picture this: you're a hiring manager looking at yet another 4-page CV in a format you've seen hundreds of times. How likely are you to remember that individual? So, as a candidate, what can you do to avoid having your CV fall through the cracks? What should you look out for when updating your CV? Let's find out.

1. Customise your CV for the job you want

Go through the job description and make sure that your CV explains why you are the right candidate for the role. Relate your accomplishments to the particular vacancy and quantify your successes if possible.

"Make sure that your CV demonstrates your unique blend of skills and experience and, in some cases, familiarity with any software that may apply for the job. Also, include examples of commercial success (achievements) and problem-solving," says David, who is a Konnekt recruiter specialising in IT & iGaming.

Even if your skills make you top talent, you risk fading into the background if you fail to present your knowledge well.


2. Keep a uniform format

Whether you use an off-the-shelf template or decide to create your own, make sure you are consistent throughout your CV. Bear in mind that the recipient probably reviews many CVs daily. Therefore, make sure that yours is easy to read and straight to the point.

"Use one type of font on a simple layout, which is not too crowded. Keep a consistent design for content, use one colour and simple text alignment," says Adriana, a Konnekt recruiter with over four years of experience in the Manufacturing and Pharmaceutical industries.

Take your time to develop your CV so that it truly reflects who you are. Unless the job advert tells you to use the Europass CV template, our recruiters suggest moving away from it. Not only has this format become quite outdated, but it makes every candidate look the same, therefore making it more difficult for your target audience to identify candidates that stand out.

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    • 3. Focus on the essentials

    List your most recent work experience first, with the rest following in chronological order. Ideally, you should separate your work experience and education details with subheadings. "Focus on the essentials. If you have a degree, don't list all your O'levels," says Kim, a Konnekt recruiter specialising in IT & iGaming.

    Include only the essential details that are either necessary for the recipient to get in touch with you or required to outline your skills, experience and achievements. You do not need to add extra information such as your height, age or marital status (unless these details are specific for the role as stipulated by law).

    Always make sure to keep your CV short and simple; it should not be longer than one or two pages. Maria highlights how important it is to "not beat around the bush. Mention achievements such as process improvements, targets reached and cost/time efficiencies." Maria has three years of experience, and her main focus is General Recruitment, with particular expertise in Retail, Manufacturing & FMCG.


    4. Error-free zone

    When it comes to your CV, mistakes are not acceptable. So make sure that you review the document for typos, grammatical errors and any spacing or alignment issues. What will your future employer think if your CV feels sloppy? Consider a mistake a missed opportunity to impress a potential employer. So, you might want to ask a friend or a family member to proofread it too.

    Remember, your CV is always a work in progress; you need to keep polishing it. Look at your CV critically, keep going back to edit it and proofread it again and again.


    5. Pro photo or no photo

    Adding a photo to your CV is a bone of contention in the industry. In general, we advise against photos, however, should you feel this is absolutely necessary, please (PLEASE-we beg of you!) use a professional-looking photo. We can assure you that your future employer isn't interested in knowing what you look like in beachwear or sportswear (or with a cap on or flowers in your hair). Selfies are frowned upon, so please, either go pro or don't go there at all.


    male comparison of good and bad photo for cv female comparison of good and bad photo for cv


    6. Bottom line

    Essentially, you should "regard your resume as your business card", Edel, recruiter within the General Recruitment team, maintains. You want your resume to represent who you are. It needs to make a strong enough impression on the recruiter or HR manager so that they reach out to you to secure an interview—what follows will be up to you.

    While the saying ‘don't judge a book by its cover’ stands firm, since the recipient of your CV hasn't met you as yet, you need to make sure that your CV paints the most realistic and best possible image of yourself. Seven seconds is not a long time, so first impressions are vital to securing a job interview. Think about it this way; you have a golden opportunity to market yourself to get the job you want, so make sure to use the space wisely to state what you can bring to the table. Be precise, concise and confident; don't shy away from showcasing your assets. Be relevant, and above all, be honest.


    Now that you know the importance of updating your CV - Update your profile and upload your new CV.