A powerful CV or resumé can be the key to unlocking your next career move. With attention to detail being non-negotiable in finance, making a strong first impression is critical to set you apart from the competition.

Here, Edward James, recruitment expert from RCQ Associates, shares his top tips on how to elevate your CV or resumé and capture the attention of discerning decision-makers in the financial industry.

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Today we’re diving into an essential topic for ambitious credit professionals – crafting a standout CV. Your resume is your first impression, so let’s make sure it’s a great one.

So… let’s jump right in!

Keep it concise yet comprehensive

I recommend a two-page CV. This length strikes the perfect balance, allowing you to clearly outline your key points to the main stakeholders. Expect your CV to be reviewed by HR or recruitment teams and potentially heads of departments or C-suite individuals. Everyone in financial services is time-limited, so your CV needs to be an easily digestible document that highlights your key strengths and experience succinctly. Aim for a clear summary rather than an exhaustive list – definitely keep it under three pages.

Tailor your CV for different roles

It’s crucial to tailor your CV for each role you apply for. A CV or resume for an analytical position should be different to one for a commercial role for example. If you possess diverse skills, consider having two or three different versions of your CV, each emphasizing different aspects of your background. Spend a few minutes before submitting your CV to ensure it aligns with the job specification. Highlight the relevant experience or skills that match the job requirements to catch the hiring manager’s eye immediately.

Proofread for perfection

This might sound basic, but it’s really important – avoid misspellings and grammatical errors. Attention to detail is incredibly important in all financial roles so these types of mistakes create a negative impression. Take the time to proofread your CV carefully, and consider having someone else review it as well. Ensure it reads well and presents a polished first impression. I’ve seen people rejected for errors so it’s worth your time to check.

Use bullet points over paragraphs

I always tell people that when it comes to resumes, bullet points are your friend. They make your CV more readable and allow recruiters to quickly scan through your experience and achievements. Ensure each bullet point is concise and clearly outlines your responsibilities and accomplishments. This format is much more effective than dense paragraphs.

Focus on recent roles

Your most recent roles, especially from the last five to ten years, should occupy the most space on your CV. These positions are likely the most relevant to potential employers so focus on detailing your recent and significant achievements to demonstrate your current capabilities. While you can include earlier career history, these should take up less room.

Include a brief summary

At the top of your CV, include a brief summary – think of it as a mini cover letter. In three to five sentences, outline the key points that make you a compelling candidate. Highlight your interest in the role and the skills you possess that are most relevant to the job. This summary provides a quick snapshot of who you are and what you bring to the table.

Crafting a great CV is about clarity, relevance, and precision and making a lasting impression.

I hope these tips help you to create a CV that stands out to hiring managers and effectively showcases your strengths.