Your CV: Get Noticed, Get Interviewed

You're applying for jobs in a competitive market. Getting your CV past the initial screening is crucial. This article explains how to make your application stand out from the rest and impress recruiters from the first glance.

Make the First Impression Count

Recruiters spend very little time on a first CV review. They are scanning for key information. Your CV needs to be clear, concise, and immediately relevant. Avoid jargon where possible, or explain it briefly.

Think about the specific job you are applying for. For example, if it's for a HGV Class 1 Driver, make sure your licence details and driving experience are very clear. If it's a Freight Forwarding Operations role, highlight your customs knowledge or specific trade lane experience. Many roles, like the 17 live freight forwarding vacancies, attract many applicants. Your CV must shine.

Tailor Your Application Every Time

One size does not fit all. Do not send the same CV to every job. Read the job description carefully and identify the key skills and experience they are looking for. Then, adapt your CV to match these.

For instance, if a role asks for Forklift Counterbalance Driver experience, make sure that's prominently featured. If you're applying for an Interim Warehouse, Cross Dock & Yard Manager role, highlight your leadership and operational efficiency achievements. This tailoring shows you understand the role and have put effort into your application. It also helps with automated screening systems that look for keywords.

Highlight Your Achievements, Not Just Duties

Instead of just listing what you did, explain what you achieved. Use numbers and examples where you can. Did you improve efficiency? Reduce costs? Handle a complex project successfully? This is far more impactful.

For a Warehouse Administrator, instead of "Managed paperwork," try "Streamlined goods-in documentation, reducing processing time by X%." For a Customs Clearance Clerk, "Successfully processed X declarations daily with 100% compliance." This shows your value. LME's current median advertised salary for freight forwarding is £33,500, and for transport roles it's £42,500. Showing your impact helps justify your salary expectations.

What to do this month

• Review your CV: Read it from a recruiter's perspective. Is it easy to read? Does it clearly state your skills and achievements?
• Target your applications: For every job you apply for, tailor your CV and cover letter. Don't just hit 'send'.
• Quantify your achievements: Where possible, add numbers and data to show your impact in previous roles.
• Check for errors: Proofread carefully for any typos or grammatical mistakes. A clean CV reflects attention to detail.
• Get a second opinion: Ask a trusted friend or colleague to read your CV. They might spot things you've missed.