Not all CV achievements are equal

Anyone who’s read an article on how to write a CV will have heard that showcasing your achievements is invaluable to capturing interest and securing interviews. What’s often not made clear is how strategic you need to be about which achievements to include.

Here’s a guide to help you highlight your accomplishments effectively:

1. Strategically Select Achievements

We cannot stress this enough - choose accomplishments that reflect the performance measures and deliverables associated with the type of role you’re targeting. This strategic selection ensures that your CV resonates with potential employers and highlights your relevant experience. Choose 2-3 key achievements for each role, increasing this number for more recent or relevant positions.

2. Start with a Strong Verb

Each achievement should begin with a powerful action verb. This approach not only makes your accomplishments more dynamic but also immediately grabs the reader’s attention. Examples include "led," "implemented," "designed," and "increased."

3. Quantify with Numbers and Evidence

Quantifying your achievements with numbers and factual evidence adds credibility and impact. Instead of stating that you "improved sales," specify that you "increased sales by 25% within six months." Concrete figures help potential employers understand the scale and significance of your contributions.

4. Think About Order and Relevance

Order your achievements to mirror the priorities of the role. Place the most relevant and impressive achievements at the top of each section. This ensures that the most critical information is seen first, making a strong initial impression.

By following these guidelines, you can craft compelling and impactful CV achievements that effectively demonstrate your suitability for your target role. This approach not only highlights your past successes but also strategically positions you as an ideal candidate for the job.