CVs past, present and future

I’ve been reading articles about CVs for as long as I’ve been reading CVs and coaching.  I like to think that it’s coaching because that’s what I do, right?  Although occasionally, when it comes to CVs, I resort to telling.  Sometimes there simply isn’t sufficient time to coach in new ideas once the headhunter has called, but more on that later.  I’m a big fan of looking to the future as you know, although most CVs are written in the past tense which presents the first hurdle.  I don’t subscribe to the view that we can do without CVs, but they do need a shake up!

So many people, irrespective of entrepreneurial ability or organisational level seem wedded to every detail about their past, including their swimming badges.  Then they chat to the recruiter or the headhunter who suggests a few additions of their own.  Yes, you’ve got it, even more detail about what was, rather than what could be.  Then there’s the challenge of cramming everything into the recommended space; made even more difficult because everyone has an opinion and you’re running out of time.  And then there’s the invitation to speak at an industry event; CVs aren’t just for recruitment.

If this all sounds too familiar, then you may want to begin with your story.  This is especially important as it frames what you need to write.  Remember this is your CV written by you and about you, and it doesn’t belong to anyone else.  Are you ready to tell your Great story?  I don’t want to dwell too much on how things were, although I’m so pleased that we’ve been able to jettison the words curriculum vitae in favour of our name and contact details – a far better use of space.

I’m encouraged that people are getting more creative and including greater insights to their personalities even their values while telling their stories.  And I’m thrilled that CVs are becoming increasingly authentic and less like a list of tasks on a corporate “to do” list.  They need to draw in the reader and show warmth like a cozy log fire and a mug of hot chocolate – the one you can’t put down.  All the things which Ebenezer Scrooge had forgotten. 

I’m glad that we’re beginning to see more achievement-focused CVs, although I don’t think we’ve all achieved the ideal CV blueprint just yet. Here’s an example which is so much more insightful than a list of jobs that don’t seem to hang together. It provides answers to those potentially awkward questions and may even prevent your audience drawing inappropriate conclusions.

“I’m adaptable and I thrive on change and challenge.  I’ve worked in multiple roles and adjusted my style to suit different organisations and business sectors.  I can help your operation to appeal to new audiences and different markets.  That’s what keeps me interested and motivated.”

I’ve been compiling my CV “wish list” and here’s my take on the future Charles Dickens style.  Let’s take a look.  There’s no doubt that technology has created fantastic opportunities for employers and candidates alike.  Online applications provide structure and offer speedier alternatives to paper-based solutions, although the majority still follow the same basic principles.  I’m delighted that video continues to make its mark on recruitment and I’m really looking forward to video CVs gaining even more popularity.  My first wish is that video CVs encourage candidates to focus on where they want to go, rather than where they’ve been.  Naturally we’ll all need to see past any performance nerves.

My second wish for the future is that there’s much more focus on the end goal and how (or what) candidates will contribute.  For me, this is a critical element of a great CV, along with goal-relevant achievements.  A departure from the rigid job by job (and no doubt stuffy) CVs popularised in the 50s and 60s to replace a handwritten letter of introduction; Journeyman to Master of the Guild.  I’m suggesting that CVs should focus on content that’s relevant to the opportunity you want.

Another wish is that employers, recruiters and headhunters all encourage candidates to showcase their personality, values and skills (on their CV) whatever their organisational level or profession.  Maybe it’s time to break free from convention and inspire each other to focus on reality, warts and all.  Let’s all sign up to CVs which are authentic, insightful and a good starting point for valuable dialogue.  That means focusing on the future you want and not the past you’ve left (or want to leave) behind.

·       Look to the future and the opportunity you want

·       Be clear on your story

·       Have an up-to-date CV that’s ready to go (always)

·       Remember to showcase your personality and values

·       Get creative

·       Draw in the reader and keep them interested

·       Focus on your goals, where you want to go

·       Explain what you will contribute

·       Consider how a video CV could help

·       Practise your performance skills

·       Read Let’s talk CVs and bees

Recruiters, headhunters, coaches, educators and employers, it’s time to spread the word.  If you’d like a conversation about CVs, please get in touch Let’s talk.