One of the most common questions job seekers ask is: How can I tell if my CV is effective and tailored to a specific job? Our resident careers expert, Sue Mason, gives us the low-down on creating the perfect CV for the role you're applying for - and how to access a brand new tool that can help you do it.

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Where to start?

Begin by completing the standard sections found in a LinkedIn profile: contact information, experience, education, certifications, projects, volunteering, and skills. Add bullet points to each job role that start with strong action verbs such as "led," "developed," or "managed." Then, describe the context of what you accomplished, why you did it, and the results achieved, emphasising the skills used along the way.

What to do next?

Review the advert, job description and any additional materials provided by the employer. Identify key words and phrases that highlight the essential qualifications, experiences, and skills required for the role. Then, integrate these into your CV, showcasing where and when you have gained them. You can also leverage tools like CareerSet for additional support.

What is CareerSet?

This online tool provides personalised feedback designed to help job seekers improve their applications and enhance their chances of securing an interview.

The AI-powered platform offers valuable feedback and guidance to help you optimise your CV and cover letter for specific job applications.

What does CareerSet do?

  • Scores CVs: evaluates them based on skills, impact, style, and brevity.
  • Provides feedback: gives tailored advice on how to improve both your CV and cover letter.
  • Tailors CVs to jobs: helps you align your CV with specific job descriptions by identifying relevant keywords and experiences.
  • Improves cover letters: evaluates your cover letter, offering feedback on its length, tone, and how well it is tailored to the job.
  • Helps you stand out: highlights key skills and terms to ensure your CV stands out to hiring managers.

How do I access CareerSet?

Simply go to: https://careerset.com/nottingham and use the access code: NOTTINGHAMGRAD to get started.

Should you rely on tools like CareerSet and AI to do the work for you?

While it can certainly assist with refining your CV and ensuring it is tailored to the job at hand, tools like this are no substitute for the effort you need to put in yourself. A CV and cover letter are your opportunity to showcase your unique qualities. If you do not actively think about and demonstrate how you meet the job requirements, your application could end up looking generic and will not stand out.

Careers help for alumni - including new CV tool

If you would like human help with your career, we are here to help! Please contact me, Sue Mason, Post-Graduation Careers Consultant, at: susanna.mason@nottingham.ac.uk, and if you are interested in using this new tool, try accessing CareerSet with the code above.