How to make your CV Stand Out in a Cluttered Job Market

Recent Australian research shows a staggering 88% of job seekers’ resumes are so poorly written they are binned almost as soon as they’re received. A new online career profiling platform called Trumpetpage, wants to cut that number in half by teaching job candidates how to write a CV that really stands out in the crowd.

Technology now allows job seekers to take a scatter-gun approach to looking for work, sending out hundreds of poorly written CVs in a couple of clicks. As a result, there are now literally millions of CVs online and almost all look and feel the same, making it difficult for even the most talented candidates to stand out in the mix.

According to Trumpetpage founder and CEO, Bronwen Kaspers, the Australian job market has become so cluttered; there are approximately 200 candidates per job and up to 300 applicants for more generalist roles like accounting. The real issue however, stems from the fact that the job seekers aren’t taught how to write a CV nor showcase their skills.

“No-one’s ever really taught job seekers what to write in their CVs or what recruiters and hiring managers are after from a CV,” said Bronwen. “Adding technology to the mix without any kind of education has only made it worse.”

Bronwen’s top tips for job seekers wanting to stand out

• Really think about what you want from your next career move. Find 10 companies that match that and do your research. Look at their current employees, look at their language, culture and tailor your approach.
• Review the job advertisement – use that exact language (keywords) in your CV and your cover letter. If they’re using CV scanning technology, that’s the only way you’ll get through.
• Demonstrate how your skills would be a good fit for the role. Provide examples and talk about the positive outcomes you achieved.
• Read the application instructions and follow them to the letter. Hiring managers often instantly dismiss those who can’t follow instructions.
• Always follow up. Find out who the hiring manager is and give them a phone call. Ask if there’s anything else they need to see from you. You’ll stand out from the crowd and be more likely to be remembered and if your skills fit, be invited to interview.

Bronwen Kaspers has spent the better part of the last 10 years teaching job seekers how to better position themselves to get the job they’re really after.

“With so much clutter out there, it’s critical that we first educate job seekers and contractors in how to stand out both visually and in writing in order to catch the hiring manager’s eye,” says Bronwen. “And not just that, but at the same time assist them to get through resume scanners that are starting to be used more and more in Australia – something that very few online career profiling platforms allow for.”

Trumpetpage provides visually attractive templates that teach job seekers, contractors and freelancers how to showcase their skills in the best possible light. For more information visit the website: www.trumpetpage.com.au