When searching the internet for the best CV template to use, you may become overwhelmed by the variety and breadth of styles available. It is critical that you select the right template in order to increase your chances of landing interviews; otherwise, you will be wasting your time on countless failed job applications. You might be wondering why you keep getting turned down for jobs. The answer is frequently visible and is usually due to formatting.
In my opinion, there are two main CV formats, a few subcategories, and a solution!
1ATS-compliant resumes
Use a CV Template that is designed to adhere to ATS rules and ensures that when you upload your CV to LinkedIn, an industry job board, or a corporate job portal, your information is correctly scanned and ranked based on keywords, experience, and qualifications. ATS CV subcategories include:
A reverse chronological CV emphasizes the candidate's experience at each employer, with the positions listed in reverse chronological order. Chronological CVs should also include a brief personal statement at the top that highlights the candidate's key skills and strengths. This is the most common CV type.
- Functional Curriculum Vitae
A functional CV, as opposed to a chronological CV, focuses on your skills and expertise rather than the chronology of your employment to date. Although most recruiters do not prefer it, some senior executive positions will require a functional CV in addition to a chronological one so that their key skills and achievements can be clearly identified.
A Combined CV incorporates both the chronological and functional formats, making the CV slightly longer than usual (Typically 3-4 pages). However, it combines the best features of both types of CVs and is becoming a more popular structure to employ. To beat the ATS, make sure to include a comprehensive set of keywords throughout your CV or resume. I recommend Teal, a free keyword checker.
2CVs with a Creative Flair
Creative CVs may seem like a great idea at the time, but if not executed correctly, they may irritate potential recruiters. They are also NOT ATS compliant, and you risk your information not being scanned properly by an ATS algorithm. However, if the company expressly requests a non-standard application, comply with its request. Naturally, there are several levels to creating a creative CV.
You can use color, graphics, and logos to make it unique and demonstrate your design skills. These will undoubtedly attract attention, but will it be the right kind of attention? Consider how it will appear to a recruiter or employer when creating a creative CV. Will they be able to read it easily? Can they easily identify the important information? Remember the LAZY Z - the reader's eyes moving in a Z-like motion...
PROS: Your CV will stand out from the crowd, and you can frequently use a sidebar layout, allowing for a two-page layout that is easy on the eyes.
CONS: If you apply through an applicant tracking system, your CV will most likely not be scanned correctly, and you may not even make it past the algorithm stage.
3The Hybrid CV as a Solution
"Since 2008, I've created and tested over 30 CV templates, including Chronological, Function, Hybrid, and Created Style CVs. Although my eyes are always drawn to color and style, it is critical to use an ATS-compliant template. Bigger Fish launched its first-ever Hybrid Style CV in 2021, combining content from a combined CV with the flair of a creative CV to ensure your CV passes an ATS scan while also looking great when it lands in front of a recruiter or hiring manager. "
The CV includes Contact Information, Bespoke Summary, Key Skills/Keywords, Education, Career Highlights with 3 SAR Stories, Education, Early Career, Voluntary Roles, Training & Certifications, IT Skills, Publications, Memberships & Affiliations, Additional Information, and Recommendations, all in a 3-page layout.
The Boostlane framework employs knowledge of modern CV best practices, psychology, influential sales techniques, ATS compliance, keyword research, and interview methodology to quickly demonstrate your business value to a potential employer.
Once your CV/resume has been optimized, you should begin to receive interviews. How long have you been interviewing? I'm guessing quite some time... When competing against other high-caliber candidates, being a strong communicator and being at ease in interviews is not enough.
It is critical to understand how to correctly interpret questions and structure your responses using effective communication frameworks. This is where the Boostlane Coaching Guide comes in handy.
