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There is no doubt that a CV still has a role to play in job hunting and a well constructed document can deliver positive results especially in a tough job market. Having said this I do feel that many jobseekers spend too much time hiding behind their CV and restrict opportunities to show the real person. The result is that many jobseekers miss out on potential interviews and job offers. Why do jobseekers hide behind their CV? I have two theories – some jobseekers don’t know any different and other jobseekers stop themselves through fear or lack the confidence.

Is there a problem with hiding behind your CV?

A CV tells the hard facts such as skills, education and experience but there is much more to a hiring decision than the ability of an applicant to do the job. From experience the best qualified or best experienced candidate doesn’t always get the job. Employers put emphasis on organisation/team fit and desire/interest in the job. It is extremely difficult to get your personality, attitude, interest or desire to work for a company onto a CV. Communicating this additional information can enhance applications when you are not the strongest candidate on paper. Communicating this additional information can also enhance applications when you are strong on paper but face competition from equally strong candidates.

Activity, Creativity & Visibility = Job Search Results

For me three words dictate job hunting success and results – Visibility, Creativity & Activity. I guess sending a CV is activity BUT certainly not creative and it limits visibility. Jobseekers must realise that they are their “real CV” and provide much more information than a one dimensional piece of typed A4 paper. Jobseekers who don’t know any different need to familiarise themselves with the dramatically changing job search landscape. Jobseekers held back by fear/lack of confidence need to overcome this and step outside comfort zones into job zones. I have set up a group on Linkedin called Measurability Careers & Jobs Club. Feel free to join and access leading career professionals offering free advice to help you learn how to enhance creativity and visibility.