Six simple steps to a job-ready CV

Published: 25 May 2016 Eastern

Are you considering your next career move or dreaming of a change of scene? Paul D’Silva, manager of radiography at recruiter Your World Healthcare, shares essential advice on creating a CV that will get you noticed – for the right reasons.

As the population ages and the need for diagnostic imaging increases, the NHS is predicting faster-than-average job growth for radiography professionals. Take advantage of this favourable employment climate by creating a CV that markets you properly for the best job opportunities.

1. WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT YOU?

Many radiography professionals’ CVs are barebone lists of credentials. To get noticed, you’ll need to turn your CV into a compelling marketing piece that relays what value you will bring. 

Start by conducting research on what employers look for when hiring professionals in your field. Search for your ideal job and review the desired qualifications.

Next, write a list of your matching credentials, as well as two or three additional reasons why you would be an excellent employee. This is what some call your ‘value proposition’ – the top reasons employers should call you for jobs.

Here’s an example for a sonographer: Job ads require: Certified Sonographer; one to two years of experience.

Value proposition: Qualified Sonographer with five years of experience performing abdominal, OB/GYN, neonatal-head and small-parts sonography in large and small hospital settings, both private and NHS.

The value proposition should be stated prominently at the top of the CV, preferably in a qualifications summary or the objectives section.

The rest of your CV should support your value proposition.

2. WORK HISTORY

When writing your career history paint a picture of your responsibilities, skills and contributions so employers can readily understand the scope of your experience.

Be sure to include:

  • Work setting (eg, A&E, theatre, x-ray).
  • Types of patients and caseload managed.
  • Types of procedures administered.
  • Equipment and technology used.
  • Involvement in committees or taskforces.
  • Accomplishments (eg, improvements in patient care, quality control, safety, cost reduction).

3. SKILLS

Build credibility by including a comprehensive list of skills that are important to your career goal.

Include core job and technical skills, equipment knowledge, languages and any other skills that add to your qualifications. Don’t neglect your soft skills, such as interpersonal communications, dedication to teamwork and bedside manner – employers want radiography professionals who will contribute to their team’s success.

And if you’ve won any awards, as an individual or as part of a team, don’t forget to mention that too!

4. TRAINING

Constant changes in technology require radiography professionals to keep their skills current. Include classes, certifications, in-service training, conferences, seminars and computer-based learning.

5. CUSTOMISE

There are no strict rules about CV format and content, so you may customise the document to suit your experience and career objective.

By taking the time to craft a targeted CV with a clear message about the value you offer as a radiographer, you will generate calls for jobs Are you considering your next career move or dreaming of a change of scene?

6. PRESENTATION

Remember, your CV is a reflection of yourself, so it’s important that it’s well laid out and looks professional.

  • Keep it short enough to read quickly and ideally no more than two sides of A4
  • Choose a clear, professional font to ensure that your CV can be easily read
  • Be clearly laid out in a logical order, with sufficient spacing and clear section headings (work experience, education)
  • Avoid typing mistakes at all costs. A simple spellcheck is not enough – ask someone else to proofread your finished CV
  • Order your experience and education into reverse chronological order to highlight your most recent experience and achievements

Once you’re happy with how your CV looks, make sure you’re happy with the content. It goes without saying that style, grammar and punctuation are as important as dressing and being presentable for interview, so don’t leave this to chance.

Most importantly, highlight exactly why you’re the right match for the job by outlining:

  • Specific skills you have to offer the employer
  • Experience you have in the specific field
  • Appropriate personal qualities for the role
  • An understanding of the job requirements

Follow these six simple steps and you’ll increase your chances of securing that all important interview.

Good luck in your search!