6 HR INSIGHTS THATWILL MAKE YOU READYFOR A JOBAPPLICATION

By Grit International

LESSONS FROM CHEETAH ON JOB HUNTING

FOCUS

Manual No 3

In our initial blog called “Whatdo European graduates have incommon with cheetah whenhunting for a job?”, we offered 3basic steps to help graduatesimprove their job searchexperience and reach theirgoals faster.

In our approach,

the second step was explainingthe need for focus through thejob application process.

In this third manual, we wouldlike to direct your attentiontowards important elementsthat every strong CV shouldhave.

g r i t - i n t e r n a t i o n a l . c o m / p o i n t

Keep in mind that clarityaffords focus!

Wouldn’t it be great to better understand how your CV gets screened before youactually applied for your dream job? Bringing years of HR experience to the table,we at Grit International have collectively looked at thousands of CVs, so we havedecided to condense our expertise into the most important tips.

When looking at CVs, this is what we were hoping to find: StructureA good structure enables recruiters to grasp important information with a briefdownwards scroll. This may sound basic, but it is crucial for all people who have toscreen many CVs in a short time. Good structure also includes consistency. Makesure that you follow a consistent logic in terms of formatting (for instance: thedates). These tips especially apply if you decide to go with your own template.

g r i t - i n t e r n a t i o n a l . c o m / p o i n t

g r i t - i n t e r n a t i o n a l . c o m / p o i n t

UnderstandabilityIt’s key that everyone understands your core competencies and key achievements.Especially if you are in a very technical job, keep in mind that the first screening is usuallydone by HR or other non-functional experts. Avoid too much jargon and detailedtechnical descriptions.

RelevanceIn terms of content, try to make your CV as lean as possible and focus on what is reallyrelevant to the position. For example, if you have a Master’s degree, details about yourprimary school education don’t add value, but instead just take up valuable space.

How do you determine relevance? A recruiter looks for examples that confirm that youhave the skills and capabilities as described in the job add. Confirmation of skills comesfrom the type of company you worked for, projects you participated in, or former rolesyou held. Even if your experience up to now has not been formal, since you were astudent, try to find relevant evidence in your daily activities and social engagement thatcould serve as proof of your great potential to grow and learn.

g r i t - i n t e r n a t i o n a l . c o m / p o i n t

AchievementWe mentioned that recruiters first and foremost look for proof of skills, but it’s notenough to simply list those skills and experiences in your CV. Make sure that youstate the results you achieved instead of only the roles you had. Quantify results andtry to bring in the commercial gain for the organization whenever possible. This willbe the most difficult part, but it’s also the part with which you can score the biggestcredit.

ProgressionRecruiters look at your career path: what kind of roles you held, how long youstudied and whether you have any gaps in your timeline. Important here is that youare fully aware of your progression and able to explain when asked. Be honest andopenly state that you have taken time to travel, raise kids or do something for fun. Ineach of these cases you could still show what you have learnt and what valuableexperience you have generated in these non-traditional work environments.

g r i t - i n t e r n a t i o n a l . c o m / p o i n t

Selling propositionAs with any other brand, you need to have your own unique story ready in order toland a successful sale. In a few short lines (and we really mean 2-3 sentences), youshould summarize your core strengths and your motivation for the role you areapplying for.

For most people it is extremely difficult to talk favorably about themselves, but it’scrucial in every sales process. Remember: The more unique your story is, the moreyou will stand out from the crowd. So don’t be shy to signal why you are authentic –this is exactly what every recruiter hopes to see!

Stay tuned and follow us at: www.grit-international.com/point

Manual No 4: "Strong self-branding willincrease your chances to get a dream job"

By Grit International

SOON TO COME