CV builder, yes or no?
How did we find jobs before LinkedIn? The social network has totally transformed the way we network in our professional lives and how we search for jobs. It boasts more than 467 million users worldwide and is used by many of us to progress our careers.
So, where do CV builders fit into the LinkedIn way of finding and applying for jobs? Some people are suggesting the CV has had its day – but that’s not true. CVs are still relevant to today’s job search and using a CV builder to create yours makes perfect sense.
A CV and LinkedIn profile play two very different roles for a job seeker. Both need to be honed to perfection, but a CV is often what will land you a job interview.
LinkedIn vs CV
Many people consider a LinkedIn profile simply an online CV – but they’re wrong. Yes, both demonstrate your skills and achievements, but while LinkedIn is focused on building your personal brand, telling your story and making new connections, a CV tells recruiters why you are the best person to fill a particular role.
Think about it. You don’t tailor your LinkedIn profile in the same way you tailor your CV for each job application. And this is precisely why a CV builder is so important because it lets you manage all of these changes quickly and efficiently.
Whereas a LinkedIn profile serves as a broad overview of what you have achieved in previous roles, a well-written CV focuses on the strengths and skills most relevant to a position.
Tailoring your CV
A sure-fire way of bagging yourself an interview is by creating a perfectly-polished, well-tailored CV. Of course, it’s not that simple.
With an increasing number of employers using Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), CVs are selected based on keywords rather than previous roles, skills and experience. Because every job specification is different, the ATS will scan for different keywords each time.
By tailoring your CV, you will ensure it contains the keywords an employer is seeking. You do this by picking out the keywords from a job description, then working them (and synonyms for them) into your CV. Get the right keywords in there, and your CV will pass the ATS test with flying colours
Once a CV has been shortlisted, an employer will then refer to LinkedIn, so make sure the information included on your CV is consistent with your LinkedIn profile. On LinkedIn you have the luxury of being able to include lots of information – handy when a CV has to be so concise.
Using a CV builder
Keeping your LinkedIn profile up to date is relatively straightforward. You make connections, add new skills, training and responsibilities, and share content to highlight your areas of expertise.
By contrast, updating your CV for every job application takes time. A CV builder allows you to quickly add the relevant keywords and creates a smart, professional-looking CV that will stand out from the rest. With hundreds of templates to choose from – and many designed with specific industries in mind – you’re spoilt for choice.
These days, a CV created in Word stands out for all the wrong reasons – it will look outdated and amateurish. So why not leave the design and layout of your CV to the professionals?
If you would like advice on how to maximise your CV and LinkedIn profile, get in touch with the team at Jefferson Group today.
To see our latest B2B marketing and creative jobs please click here for more information. Alternatively if you require bespoke HR support then get in touch by clicking here.
