Let’s just start by stating you shouldn’t need to redo a new CV from scratch every time you apply for a job.
But you also should avoid sending the same CV every time you apply for a job.
This maybe sounds confusing, we get it. So, let’s dive into it!
You see, recruiters aren’t always just scanning for experience, they can also be scanning for relevance.
If your CV doesn’t show that you’ve read the specific job advert and aligned yourself to it, you may run the risk of being passed over.
It’s not a new CV from scratch. It’s smart editing.
Start With the Job Advert
Before making any changes to your CV, take a few minutes to really read the job advert.
What is the Hiring manager really looking for? Is there anything repeated or highlighted? Look for specific skills, experience, or values they state and care about.
This is where you should begin. The more aligned your CV feels with their specific language and focus, the easier it will be for the recruiter or hiring manager to picture you in the role.
Tweak Your Bullet Points
To tailor your CV to the job advert, your employment history doesn’t need to change, but how you present it might.
Say for example you’re applying for a job that values leadership and process improvement. Look at your existing bullet points and ask:
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Can I highlight leadership experience more clearly?
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Did I improve a process, even in a small way?
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Can I rephrase to match the tone of the job ad?
It might even be as simple as changing a verb or spinning the focus of a sentence.
Use Keywords (But Naturally)
Okay, so keywords are important, yes for some Applicant Tracking Systems but also for recruiters.
Personally, I’ve never relied on an ATS to scan for keywords in CV’s that have directly applied for jobs. I always reviewed each CV myself.
When the language on a CV aligned with the job advert, I was much more likely to keep reading and those are the CV’s that had a higher chance of getting shortlisted.
If the job ad mentions “Communication with Stakeholders” or “Leading departmental meetings” and you’ve done those things, say so using the same or similar wording.
It’s about showing you’re speaking the same language as the role.
Don’t overload your CV with keywords, use them naturally and be accurate about your experience.
Bonus Tip: When recruiters are proactively searching for candidates, they often use something called Boolean string searching, a technique that filters results based on the keywords in your CV.
Utilise this to your advantage if your CV is on job boards.
Recruiters often search these platforms using Boolean strings and if the keywords we’re searching for appear in your CV, it’s much more likely to show up in our results!
Highlight Relevant Wins
Every job comes with a mix of tasks / responsibilities. Editing your CV is about picking the right ones to add. If something you did in previous employment lines up directly with this new job, make sure it’s visible.
Did you lead a team? Reduce costs? Improve a system? These are the stories that bring your experience to life.
Small Changes = Big Impact
Editing your CV shouldn’t take hours. You’re not rewriting your history, you’re reframing it. Even small edits to wording, order, or emphasis can make a big difference.
It not only shows that you carefully read the job advert, but also shows you care and you understand the role. Plus it makes it easier for the Recruiter / hiring manager to match you to the role, which is exactly the point.
Need help editing your CV? We offer free CV advice. Whether you’re stuck, overwhelmed, or just need a second opinion, Reach out to us. We’re here to help