Your CV is often the first impression you make on a potential employer, and it can determine whether you land an interview. To maximize your chances of success, you need to craft a CV that’s professional, concise, and tailored to the job. This guide explores the key do’s and don’ts of writing a CV to help you stand out in Kenya’s competitive job market.
CV Do’s
1. Do Tailor Your CV for Each Job
- Customize your CV to highlight the skills and experience relevant to the specific role.
- Use keywords from the job description to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
2. Do Include a Professional Summary
- Write a short summary at the top of your CV highlighting your key qualifications and career goals.
Example:
“Results-driven marketing specialist with 5+ years of experience in digital campaigns and SEO strategies, seeking to contribute to impactful marketing initiatives at XYZ Company.”
3. Do Focus on Achievements, Not Just Duties
- Use measurable accomplishments to showcase your value.
Example:
- Instead of: “Managed social media accounts,” write: “Increased social media engagement by 50% through targeted campaigns.”
4. Do Use a Clean and Professional Layout
- Stick to standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
- Use clear headings, bullet points, and consistent formatting.
- Ensure your CV is easy to read and well-organized.
5. Do Include Contact Information
- Provide your full name, phone number, professional email, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable).
- Double-check for typos in your email address or phone number.
6. Do Keep It Concise
- Limit your CV to 1–2 pages for most roles. Use clear and concise language.
7. Do Proofread Thoroughly
- Review your CV multiple times for spelling, grammar, or formatting errors.
- Consider asking a friend or mentor to review it as well.
CV Don’ts
1. Don’t Include Irrelevant Information
- Avoid listing hobbies, outdated qualifications, or jobs unrelated to the position.
- Focus on what’s relevant to the role you’re applying for.
2. Don’t Use an Unprofessional Email Address
- Replace emails like “coolguy123@gmail.com” with a professional one, e.g., “john.kariuki@gmail.com.”
3. Don’t Overload with Graphics or Fancy Fonts
- Many ATS systems can’t read complex formatting, so avoid using tables, images, or excessive colors.
4. Don’t Lie or Exaggerate
- Be honest about your qualifications, skills, and experience. Employers can verify details during the hiring process.
5. Don’t Forget Keywords
- Omitting keywords from the job description can hurt your chances, especially when ATS software is used.
6. Don’t List References on Your CV
- Simply state, “References available upon request,” unless otherwise specified.
7. Don’t Include Salary Information
- Salary expectations should only be discussed during interviews or if explicitly requested.
Common CV Mistakes to Avoid
- Typos and Grammar Errors: Double-check everything to ensure a polished CV.
- Generic Objectives: Replace vague statements like “Looking for a challenging position” with specific, tailored goals.
- Lack of Metrics: Include numbers to quantify your achievements. For example, “Reduced operational costs by 20%.”
- Cluttered Layout: Avoid overloading your CV with dense paragraphs. Use bullet points for clarity.
- Ignoring Action Verbs: Use dynamic verbs like “developed,” “managed,” or “achieved” to describe your contributions.
Example of a Polished CV Layout
John Kariuki
[Phone Number] | [Email Address] | [LinkedIn Profile]
Professional Summary
“Proactive sales professional with over 4 years of experience in B2B sales, client acquisition, and revenue growth. Consistently exceeded sales targets and implemented strategies that improved client retention rates by 25%.”
Key Skills
- Customer relationship management (CRM)
- Negotiation and closing techniques
- Market research and analysis
Work Experience
Sales Executive | XYZ Limited
Jan 2020–Present
- Increased regional sales by 40% within the first year.
- Negotiated contracts worth over Ksh 10 million, boosting company revenue.
Education
Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing) | University of Nairobi | 2018
Certifications
Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP) | 2021
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Makes a Good CV?
A good CV is clear, concise, tailored to the job, and free of errors. It highlights your achievements and uses a professional format.
2. Should I Use a CV Template?
Yes, templates can provide a clean and organized structure. Just ensure it aligns with professional standards.
3. How Often Should I Update My CV?
Update your CV regularly, especially after gaining new skills, certifications, or experience.
4. Can I Submit the Same CV for All Jobs?
No. Always tailor your CV to match the specific job description and employer requirements.
Conclusion
Crafting a professional CV involves knowing the do’s and don’ts to present yourself in the best light. By focusing on achievements, maintaining a clean layout, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can significantly increase your chances of standing out in Kenya’s job market.
Take the time to review and revamp your CV—it’s your ticket to landing your dream job!
