Your CV is often the first contact you have with potential employers. Instead of just dusting off the old CV you have and sending it out, here are 5 tips to help you create a CV that will make a real impression.
1. Not a Resume
Remember that a CV or Curriculum Vitae is not a resume. What’s the difference? A CV is a credential-based document. It’s where you provide the history of your education and training, certifications and research experience as well as professional affiliations and memberships. A CV showcases your qualifications for a job, while a resume showcases the skills and work experience to date. Be sure account for any gaps, too.
You may not have a laundry list of qualifications, that’s ok. Don’t pad your resume with pre-med school training. Your CV will grow with your career.
2. Know your audience.
Just as a CV is not a resume. There are different types of CVs – chronological and academic are the most widely used.
Chronological: Most used – experience is presented in chronological order. A sample chron CV would include:
- Header with personal details
- Personal Statement
- Education/Training
- Work History/Hospital Affiliations
- Honors/Awards, Scholarships
Academic: Used for attaching to an application for additional training or research. A sample acad CV would include:
- Header with personal details
- Personal Statement
- Education/Training
- Work History/Hospital Affiliations
- Professional memberships
- Seminars and papers
- Honors/Awards, Scholarships
- Research experience and future interests
- Teaching experience
- Admin experience
- Funding or academic awards
Have our professional recruiters review your resume and provide you with some tips
Bonus Tips For Cover Letters!
Use your cover letter to show your personality, writing skills, and to clearly tie yourself to their job description.
- Construct a strong lead - Use 2-3 sentences that make it clear why you’re applying. Passionate about their mission? Say that!
- Explain why you’re a great fit – This section can be the longest section. Ask the question “what specifically would I offer in this role?" and explain using examples from training and past positions, while lining up with their job description.
- Finish strong – "I would love to meet to discuss your goals and challenges. Thank you so much for your consideration and I hope to speak with you soon."
