Sending the same CV to every posting is quick, but it often leaves out what each employer is looking for. Tailoring it does not mean making things up: it means putting first what you already have and the posting asks for.
1. Read the posting and make a list
Underline the requirements: education, experience, knowledge, languages, licences and conditions (hours, availability). Separate what the posting highlights from what is only nice to have.
2. Compare with your CV, requirement by requirement
For each requirement, ask yourself: does my CV show it with a clear sentence? You can find three cases:
- It shows it: it is there, and it can be seen.
- It shows it in part: you have done it, but you do not explain it enough (how much, for how long, with which tools).
- Not stated: you may not have it, or you may have it and not have written it.
3. Reorder, do not invent
Put the sentences that answer the posting at the top of your CV. Add real figures when you have them. If you lack a requirement, do not write it: explain in the cover letter how you can cover it or what you are doing to get it.
4. Do it faster
NextVitae compares your CV with the posting and tells you what you show, what you show in part and what is not stated, free and with no sign-up.