Stand Out: Your CV's First Impression

You’ve found a great job opening. Now, you need to make your application stand out from the crowd. Recruiters often spend just a few seconds on each CV at first glance. Make those seconds count.

Tailor Your Application

Don't send a generic CV. Every job is different, and your application should reflect that. Customise your CV and cover letter for each role you apply for. This shows you've read the job description carefully.

Highlight the skills and experience that directly match what the employer is looking for. For example, if you're applying for a Freight Forwarding Co-ordinator role, emphasise your knowledge of incoterms, customs procedures, and customer service. If it's a Forklift Driver job, clearly state your licences and experience with specific equipment like VNA or counterbalance.

Make it Easy to Read

Recruiters are busy. Your CV needs to be clear, concise, and well-structured. Use a clean layout with plenty of white space.

• Use bullet points for responsibilities and achievements.
• Keep sentences short and to the point.
• Check for any spelling or grammar mistakes. These can be immediate red flags.
• Include a strong personal statement or summary at the top. This should quickly tell the reader who you are and what you offer.
• Focus on results. Instead of just listing duties, mention what you achieved. Did you improve efficiency? Reduce errors? Handle a specific volume of work?

What to do this month

• Review your current CV against a job description for a role you'd genuinely apply for, like a Warehouse Administrator or Junior Commercial Assistant. See where you can add more specific details.
• Consider the live vacancies in Felixstowe and Ipswich. If you're interested in roles like Freight Forwarder or Transport Administrator, update your CV to highlight relevant software skills or specific route knowledge.
• If you hold a licence for equipment like VNA or Counterbalance, make sure this is clearly visible near the top of your CV, especially for driving or warehousing roles.
• Practise writing a short, tailored paragraph for your cover letter that explains *why* you're a good fit for a specific role, using keywords from the job advert.