10 tips for an outstanding CV
Your CV is your personal gateway to the job market. It can open doors—or close them. Make sure it creates a lasting impression!
- Keep your CV to a maximum of two pages
Be concise. Recruiters often review dozens, if not hundreds, of CVs for a single vacancy. Keep it brief, and list your most recent experience first.
- Create a clear structure
Organise your information with headings. A typical layout includes: personal details, education, work experience, language skills, digital skills, and additional information.
- Include a personal pitch
After your personal details, add a short pitch of one paragraph to highlight what makes you unique. For example: “I hold a degree in X and combine skill A with skill B. I thrive on challenges like C and am eager to gain experience in Y.”
- Keep your CV up-to-date
Your CV should evolve with your career. Add new work experiences, courses, or skills as they happen. Don’t forget to update your LinkedIn profile too.
- Add a personal touch
Feel free to customise your CV. Templates can be useful, but don’t rely on them entirely—make your CV reflect your individuality.
- Make it visually appealing
Your potential employer should be able to quickly spot the most important details. Highlight key points in bold, avoid long sentences, and ensure your layout is easy on the eye. You can use different fonts or colours, but only if they enhance readability.
- Stand out from the crowd
Show your personality by mentioning hobbies, interests, and achievements. Volunteer work, leadership in organisations, or starting your own project—these details set you apart from other candidates.
- Be truthful
Everything you include must be accurate. If your French is listed as ‘excellent’, make sure it really is. Don’t fudge dates to cover gaps; instead, explain how you spent that time productively.
- Avoid spelling and grammar errors
Recruiters are often (rightly) put off by sloppy mistakes. Proofread your CV thoroughly and ask someone else to review it as well.
- Seek expert advice
Get feedback from specialists, like the VUB Career Guidance coaches. They can review your CV and cover letter and provide invaluable advice.
Still unsure?
Find more tips and examples of strong CVs on our online career platform or on Jobat’s website.
Do’s and don’ts of a compelling cover letter
A well-written cover letter is essential for securing your dream job. It should express your vision and ambitions without coming across as overconfident. How do you strike the right balance?
Do’s:
- Start with a strong opening sentence that clearly states your application for the role.
- Mention any personal connection you have to the organisation.
- Explain what you value professionally and why the role and organisation appeal to you.
- Match the skills listed in the job description with your own qualities, and include practical examples.
- Tailor your letter to the organisation’s setting, whether it’s a start-up, SME, international company, or academic institution. Explain how you will thrive in that environment and contribute to its success.
- End with an invitation to discuss your application further in an interview.
- Proofread carefully for any mistakes, and proofread again.
- Keep your letter under one page.
Don’ts:
- Avoid generic openings. Your potential employer doesn’t want to know where you found the job posting—they want to know why it excites you.
- Don’t exaggerate your skills or come across as arrogant.
- If you lack experience, don’t highlight it. Instead, focus on your willingness to learn and grow.