When we are job hunting, many of us have often felt excited about notifications like “Company X has viewed your profile on this job board.” We think excitedly, “They saw me!” We wait patiently, but in the end, we don’t understand why we never get a call for an interview. We end up frustrated and confused.
Some of us might think, “But why haven’t they called me? I meet all the requirements.” Others, less optimistic, might think, “Maybe I don’t have what it takes.” But wait! Maybe something else is going on.
As recruiters, we review hundreds of resumes every day. So, we’ve developed a strategy for reading profiles that allows us to be efficient in our work.
Each recruiter has their own way of reviewing their pool of candidates and choosing those they find suitable for an interview. But how do they decide who to call?
It all comes down to whether or not they connect with the CV they received. So, what does a recruiter like to see on your profile? What grabs their attention? What motivates them to call you for an interview?
Here are some tips to consider:
- A good CV is typically one page, or at most two (use this space strategically).
- Include a professional photo (no selfies, no photos with people cropped out, no party pictures).
- Only list your highest level of education; there’s no need to share every step of your academic history (save space).
- Clearly mention the positions you’ve held and the companies you’ve worked for. Include start and end dates.
- It’s not necessary to list all the tasks you performed at each job. Choose and write down the ones relevant to the position you’re applying for (save space).
- Keep your CV up-to-date. We want to see your most recent job, even if you’re still working there.
- Identify your strengths and mention them clearly (technical skills, certifications, languages, etc.).
- We love knowing you have soft skills—list just a few. It’s more appealing to discuss them in interviews rather than have a long list on your profile.
Our suggestion is that you review how you present yourself on your CV. Your resume is your professional introduction; make sure it is consistent and don’t exaggerate your experience. Try to tailor your information to make the impact you want on the recruiter.
Your profile is undoubtedly excellent, and you’ve probably achieved significant milestones in your career. You may actually be the ideal candidate for the position. Perhaps all you need is the opportunity for an interview to show you have what it takes. Finally, don’t get discouraged! You’ll find your place soon.
