Don’t Let Complacency Cost You the Job

Even if you’re highly experienced, academically accomplished and recognised as a leader in your field, that alone isn’t enough to secure your next role. When applying for a new position, complacency can be your biggest obstacle.

You may be fully capable of doing the job and the Hiring Manager might even agree, but if you don’t meet the required benchmark during the interview process, you won’t progress. It’s that simple.

So, how do you ensure your CV makes the shortlist?

Start with the essentials:

• Strong presentation
• Accurate and complete employment history
• Clear evidence of achievements and relevant skills

Your CV should always be aligned to the job description and person specification which means tailoring your application to reflect the specific requirements of each role. A well-written personal profile, supported by a key skills section, helps grab attention fast, encouraging the Recruiter to keep reading.

Your personal profile should clearly state your job title or professional identity, followed by a summary of your strengths, sector knowledge and core competencies which are relevant to the role. The key skills box should include bullet points which directly match the essential skills outlined in the job advert.

A common mistake we see? CVs which list achievements but skip over the career history. Don’t assume a Recruiter will know what you’ve done based on your job title alone. It’s essential to include concise, bullet-pointed summaries of your daily responsibilities particularly those which mirror the role you’re applying for.

Remember that your CV isn’t just a career summary, it’s a marketing document and you need to make every word count. Ensure you tailor your CV for the role you are applying for.