Regardless of what position you’re shooting for, whether it is your first job out of college or a senior-level executive position, the process of condensing your accomplishments and skills down into a single document can seem like a challenging task. That being said, if a new job is what you’re looking for, the perfect CV isn’t something you can skip over. When it comes to a senior-level executive position, you might even say that the process is more difficult than those looking for their first job out of college. 

If you’re gunning for a senior-level position, in all likelihood, you’ve held several jobs throughout your career, working your way up the corporate ladder. In this time, you have likely dipped your toes into a variety of industries and departments. Unfortunately, however, the people you will be competing with for this job will be coming from many different paths. For this reason, your CV will need to be created to thoroughly impress.

Today we will be walking you through exactly how to write a perfect CV for a senior-level executive position. If you’re striving to become an executive, you have to make your CV speak to that job role by making it extra impressive. This isn’t an easy task but with a few tips from us, this challenging task will be much more simple. Let’s get started!

Start By Creating an Executive Summary

Although you may be a detail-oriented go-getter that has a proven track record of success in higher level positions, you have to keep in mind that nearly everyone that is applying for the same senior-level executive position as you likely has the same qualifications. For this reason, you need to get rid of the resume objective altogether and instead focus yourself on crafting an executive summary that proves you’re the best fit for the job role. 

When it comes to a thorough executive summary, we typically recommend that applicants showcase four to five bullet points that directly highlight your value as it relates to the senior-level executive position. Put simply, this summary acts as your most valuable CV real estate. Think of this as your first (and biggest) chance to offer a potential employer direct reasoning for why you’re the best fit for the job and make it a seemingly obvious choice. If you can do that, you’ll make a good first impression that impresses and that’s the main point of your senior-level executive CV. 

Make Sure to Include a Core Proficiencies Section

Another key section to include in the perfect CV for a senior-level executive position is a core proficiencies section. This section acts as your chance to showcase the skills you have as they directly relate to an executive position. Be sure to only include core proficiencies that directly relate to an executive position. For example, although your strengths in Excel may be important, this isn’t an especially “executive skill”. Instead, you may want to highlight skills in employee development, global strategy, or skills and acquisition. These are skills that any senior-level executive should have and you will stand out to a recruiter if you are able to highlight such skills successfully. Collect all of these executive skills in a section that you label either “Core Proficiencies” or “Areas of Expertise” and situate them directly underneath your executive summary. In doing so, you can generate a great first impression that will keep a recruiter reading for longer.

Demonstrate Financial and Business Impact

Qualitative results are great and they can seriously give a recruiter an idea of the type of person you are but when it comes to a senior-level executive position, quantitative results are what recruiters are really looking for. The ideal senior-level executive candidate will be known for generating a positive impact both financially and in business and it’s important to note that you are not likely to land an executive position simply for being a good person. Candidates that can detail how they have driven growth, reduced costs, and optimized staff performance will be the ones to come out on top. That’s why you need to demonstrate your financial and business impact and do it quickly. 

The best way to do this is by simply showing the results. Show the quantitative data that speaks to your skills in these key areas. One of the most simple ways to accomplish this is by creating a section on your CV labeled “Key Highlights” or “Key Accomplishments”. We also highly recommend bolding the most impressive quantitative data so that a potential employer can find this information quickly and easily. 

Hit Hard on Highlights That Match Your Target Role

If you’re applying for a senior-level executive job, it is likely that you have many accomplishments in your past work history to be proud of. You’ve worked your way up to the top and you should embody these accomplishments in your CV. That being said, it’s important that you not overstuff. You should never view your CV as an autobiography that details every little detail about your life. Rather, you should hit hard on highlights as they relate to the senior-level executive position that you are applying for. 

Share career highlights as they directly relate to the position you are applying for and make connections with the needs of the role you’re applying for and accomplishments you have made in the past. Why should a potential employer select you for this high position? Show them the evidence. Make it clear as day. Leave out the fluff and focus on those hard-hitting highlights that will convince them of your value. 

Focus on Your Most Recent Work Experience

Most CVs benefit from a chronological format and this is because it clearly highlights your career progression throughout the years. That being said, most of your CV should be focused around your most recent work experience. You should spend the most time discussing your current role, including details that will prove to the recruiter what your role entails and what type of company you are working for. Even if you haven’t been at your current job for very long, this same rule still applies. The only exception is if your current job is completely unrelated to your career goals or an executive summary. 

Include Only Your Past 15 Years of Job Experience

If you’re applying for a senior-level executive position, you have a lot of job experience leading up to this point. You may have quite a bit to share in terms of the history of companies, responsibilities, and different positions you have held. That being said, it is highly recommended to only share your past 15 years of job experience in your CV. If there are positions that you feel are especially relevant to share that extend outside of this time range, you can still share this in a section labeled “Prior Experience”- just be sure to leave out the lengthier details. Following this rule will ensure that you don’t run out of space and can keep your senior-level executive CV well-organized and straight to the point. 

Discuss Education at the End of the CV

When you’re a recent college graduate, your degree is often one of your biggest selling points as a potential employee. When you’re applying for a senior-level executive position, however, it’s time to shift your focus away from education and more towards relevant job experience in leadership roles. For this reason, it is highly recommended that while you still include your education on your CV, you move it towards the end (with the exception of any advanced degrees that may work in your favor). This will give you plenty of room to focus on work experience while still highlighting the importance of the degree that you hold as it relates to the job you are applying for. 

Use BuzzCV to Craft the Perfect Senior-Level Executive CV!

Now that you know some of the most important tips regarding creating the perfect CV for a senior-level executive position, it’s time to get started! One of the hardest parts of creating a CV is often found in choosing a design that speaks to your professionalism and value. Fortunately, BuzzCV has you covered there! We offer over 20 certified CV templates that you can use to create a modern and professional resume and cover letter easily. Each of our designs are attractive, organized, and easy to use- making them the perfect templates to ensure success when creating your own CV for a senior-executive level position. 

While showcasing your accomplishments and skills are essential when applying for a senior-level executive position, the way that you organize this information within your CV is just as important. BuzzCV is here to offer you the tools you need to get noticed! Follow these tips and use our resources to create the perfect senior-level executive CV today!

Check out our CV templates today to get started and register as a member for free today! 

As a member, you’ll have access to:

• Free CV templates
• Digital CV
• Digital cover letter
• Personality test
• Job search
• Customer support

While it is important to note that an attractive and eye-catching resume is not likely to land you your dream job alone, it certainly doesn’t hurt to put in the effort when it comes to how you represent you and your abilities on paper. For this reason, finding the right resume design for you is absolutely critical. This means you need to identify what the right CV template is. Put simply, the right resume design is one that encapsulates both your individual skills and personality, boosting your resume to the top of the pack. 

That being said, BuzzCV knows that finding an attractive CV template design that also matches your professional identity can be easier said than done. That’s why, today, we’ll be talking about the difference between basic CV templates and design CV templates, both of which are offered here at BuzzCV. Which CV template type is best for you and which can elevate your chances of winning that dream job? Let’s find out. 

Why is CV Template Design Important?

Before we look at basic CV templates and design CV templates specifically, let’s sum up why your CV template design is such a critical component of your ability to score the job of your dreams. Put simply, your dream job doesn’t rely on your education, experience, and skill alone. Rather, it relies on the presentation of your CV, as well. According to James Innes, founder and chair of CVCentre.co.uk, “design has become more important with the current job market. In fact, it becomes continually more important as competition for jobs increases year on year.” So why is presentation so important when it comes to your CV? 

Presentation is key when it comes to your CV because it is the first thing that your potential employers will notice about you. Before a potential employer reads a single word on your CV, you make an impression with the presentation of your CV. For this reason, your presentation on your CV can make all the difference between landing a job and being skipped over. If the presentation of your CV is thoroughly professional, you immediately give the impression, as the applicant, that you are thoroughly professional yourself. This will impress a potential employer and very likely move your application to the top of the stack for consideration. 

So how can you do your best to present your CV as professionally as possible? One of the best ways of doing so, other than focusing on a professional overall design as we will discuss later, is to avoid some of the most common mistakes on CVs. This includes spelling mistakes, an overuse of bolds or italics, or splitting sections over two pages. Aesthetics, however, are also crucial which is why identifying whether you will use a basic CV template or design CV template is so important. This is obvious when you consider the fact that up to a quarter of CVs are trashed immediately by potential employers because of poor presentation value. So how can you choose the right CV template for you?

What is a Basic CV Template?

In order to choose the best CV template for you, it’s important that you have an idea of the options at your disposal. For the purposes of this article, we will be focusing on two main CV template types: basic CV templates and design CV templates. Each of these template types are offered here at Buzz CV but you are likely wondering which is the best for you. Let’s talk about each type in detail as well as offer some examples of the best CV templates in each group, starting with the basic CV template. 

A basic CV template, put simply, prioritizes offering the needed sections with important information outlining your experience, education, and skills without the flair offered by design CV templates. While a design CV template may feature special graphics or stylized finishes, a basic CV template is a bit more straightforward, relying on the presentation of information rather than aesthetic. These basic CV templates may be in a chronological CV format or in a skill-based CV template but, regardless of the basic CV template that you use, there are a few “must-haves” that every CV template needs. For one, this includes 6 important sections including:

• Contact information
• Personal statement
• Work Experience
• Education
• Job Skills

There are also a few other essential “must-haves” when it comes to a thorough basic CV template. These extras will ensure that your basic CV template will be powerful and present you well despite the lack of added aesthetic flair. These include:

• All of the essential sections with the option to add extras if you choose.
• An easily readable layout.
• A matching cover letter template to pair it with.
• Optimised for ATS scanning.
• A generous use of white space.
• The ability to include all required information within the recommended CV length.

Now that you have an idea of the layout of a basic CV template, let’s look at a few examples of some of the most highly recommended basic CV templates that you can use to present yourself professionally. 

Customer Service Basic CV Template

This template is a popular basic CV template used for the customer service field. As you can see, this CV gets straight to the point and doesn’t rely heavily on graphics or color schemes. Instead, the information itself is showcased. This is a key distinction to make between basic CV templates and design CV templates. As you can see, this basic CV template also includes all required sections for a CV in a plain and simple layout. While basic CV templates may not be as visually appealing as design CV templates, it is clear that they get the job done and lay out all important information in a well-organized format. 

Account Manager Basic CV Template

Much like the customer service basic CV template that we looked at above, this basic CV template that is centered around an account manager position capitalizes on information rather than extra visual appeal. While there is more of a robust color scheme present in this basic CV template, it is again centered mostly on the presentation of white space- something common amongst most basic CV templates. For a more basic and plainly organized approach to your CV, either of these templates would make the best choice. 

What is a Design CV Template?

Now that you have a good idea of what a basic CV template is and how you can use it to represent yourself professionally, it’s time to talk about the other CV template type offered here at BuzzCV: the design CV template. Design CV templates, unlike basic CV templates, capitalize on a more visual approach to the CV. Design CV templates are known for being more visually appealing, helping you to stand out a bit more when your CV lands on the desk of a recruiter. While it still offers the same required sections needed in any CV, there is much more of a focus on a stylized approach. This often gives a potential employer the first impression that you are unique, making them much more likely to read your CV in its entirety. Design CV templates typically offer graphics, backgrounds, and attractive color schemes. 

There are a few things you should keep in mind when working with a more creative design CV template. For one, you should use columns to maximize on space. This ensures that you are able to maximize the use of the space and keep your CV to one sheet of paper. You can do so by splitting your resume layout into two sections, with a narrow column running down either the left or right side of the page. Another thing to keep in mind when using your design CV template is that you always put the more impressive stuff above the fold. The top half is the area where a potential employer will place their focus first so it’s important to get all of the most important information in front of their eyes immediately by placing it there. This is why, despite using a design CV template, you should always avoid wasting space with huge headers for your name and contact details across the head of the page. 

Let’s look at a couple of examples of design CV templates and talk a bit about why they are so effective. 

Statistician Design CV Template

As you can see right off the bat, this design CV template maximizes the use of high-quality imagery and a color scheme that is attractive without being distracting. Keeping in line with our recommendations for putting all of the important information above the fold, this design CV template allows you to input the most crucial information in the form of a summary, right in the place where a potential employer will be drawn first. The color scheme used in this design CV template strategically draws the reader’s eye to the top of the fold first, meaning your summary will be presented front and center. The rest of this design CV template maximizes the use of white space, something that is crucial in a well-done CV. Each section is laid out in an organized fashion and isn’t made hard to follow with the use of unecessary graphics. 

Assistant Design CV Template

This design CV template again capitilizes on the use of a continous color scheme but, instead of the use of a high-quality image at the top of the fold, it uses attractive typography and colored section headings to organize the entirety of the CV. This makes it easy for the reader’s eye to follow each section without being confused about which section will be about. This not only saves time but shows a potential employer that you prioritize organization and professionalism, while also adding aesthetically pleasing components. Again, the use of white space is maximized and this makes the CV feel clean and straightfoward while remaining attractive- the main purpose of a design CV template.

Which CV Template is Better?

So, finally, you may be asking, “Which CV template type is the right choice?”. While we offer both basic and design CV templates here at BuzzCV, we do have a clear favorite: design CV templates. These templates tend to be much more attractive and offer enough customization options that allow you to stand out from the crowd. When creating the perfect CV, it’s important that you are able to make stylish choices that help you stand out without distracting from the purpose of the CV itself. 

Our design CV templates offer the perfect balance of style and professionalism. While basic CV templates will certainly get the job done, they are less likely to help you stand out as they tend to appear more like “templates” than design CV templates do. Design CV templates tend to appear more original and allow you to represent yourself as unique and highly qualified for the position you are applying for. 

Use BuzzCV to Create the Perfect CV Today!

Now that you know the difference between basic CV templates and design CV templates, it’s time to get to work on your own! At BuzzCV, we offer over 20 certified CV templates that you can use to create a modern and professional resume and cover letter easily. Our design CV templates will help you stand out from the pack and our basic CV templates will offer you the formatting you need to inform your decisions as you create the perfect CV.  Check out our free CV templates today to get started and register as a member for free today! 

As a member, you’ll have access to:

• Free CV templates
• Digital CV
• Digital cover letter
• Personality test
• Job search
• Customer support

What is the difference between a CV (curriculum vitae) and a resume? Better yet, when should you use a resume and when is it a better choice to use a CV? The difference between a CV and a resume can be a confusing subject. That’s we will be exploring the difference between a CV and a resume so that you can understand which is best for a particular situation. 

The primary differences between a resume and a CV are what’s included, the length, and what each is used for. While both are used in job applications, a resume and CV are not always interchangeable. Keep reading for a breakdown of the differences between a CV and a resume as well as some tips for writing both!

The Main Differences Between a CV and a Resume

The main differences between a CV and a resume include the document’s contents, length, and purpose. It’s also important to consider which region of the world you’re applying in as well as your career path when deciding which is more appropriate to use in that situation. In the United States, for example, a resume should be a concise collection of your professional experience, qualifications, and skills that are specifically relevant to the job that you are applying for. A CV, on the other hand, presents an in-depth history of your professional and academic credentials and accomplishments. 

Some of the main differences include the following:

• Experience: CVs are most commonly used to apply for more academic roles or grants, programs, research, and fellowships or perhaps teaching positions. It is possible that you have a CV if you are applying to or have graduated from a doctoral or masters program. Resumes, on the other hand, are used for applying for jobs in either the public or private sectors which are often referred to as “industry positions” in contrast to academic positions.

• Length: Seeing as a resume includes your qualifications and skills for only a specific role, it should typically be somewhere between one and two pages in length. A CV, on the other hand, will not have a length limit and is typically much longer than most resumes because it includes much more information, including much more detailed descriptions of research, presentations, and coursework. 

• Geographic location: Finally, in other regions of the world (such as New Zealand and the UK), employers use the term CV to describe both CVs and resume-type documents rather than using the word “resume” at all. In other regions such as India and Australia, the terms CV and resume are often used interchangeably. In the United States, however, a resume and CV are two distinctly different types of documents used for different purposes. 

What is a CV?

A CV, an abbreviation for curriculum vitae (a Latin word meaning “course of life”) is a detailed and comprehensive document which describes the entire course of both your professional and academic accomplishments. CVs are usually formatted in chronological order and start with a description of your educational experience. Although there is no length requirement for a CV, most will range from three to ten pages, with some being even longer. With the more experience that you have, generally, the longer your CV will be. 

What Should You Include on a CV?

Now that you have an understanding of what a CV is, you may be wondering what specific information you should include when you are writing your CV. In most cases, you’ll want to include your career history as well as your awards, education, grants, scholarships, special honors, education, research projects, and publications on your CV. It’s also a good idea to include professional references, fieldwork, and coursework as well as a personal profile that lists your relevant attributes and skills. 

What is a Resume?

Put simply, a resume is a document that is meant to act as a summary of your skills, education, and career history. There are also optional sections that you can include in your resume including a resume objective and a career summary statement. It is important to remember that a resume should be as concise as possible. While a CV can be very lengthy, a resume should be no more than one to two pages long. 

What Should You Include on a Resume?

Typically, a resume will include a professional or “summary” statement, a dedicated skills section, and a condensed description of your recent and relevant professional achievements. These should be listed in reverse-chronological order, starting with your most current job. You may also want to include details surrounding your educational experience, volunteer work, or relevant professional associations. 

When to Use Each Type

Now that you have an understanding of the main differences between a resume and a CV, as well as the basic definition of each, it’s time to figure out how to best determine the right time to use each type. If you’re unsure of whether your employer requires a resume or a CV, you can ask yourself the following questions in order to best determine which document fits the situation best:

• Where is the company based? Considering that one of the main differences between a CV and a resume have to do with the fact that they are used mainly in different geographic locations, it is important to consider this when deciding which type to use. Depending on where a company is located, “CV” may refer to a standard resume or it may refer to the longer form listed above.

• What kind of job are you applying for? It is equally important to consider the type of job that you are applying for when deciding between a CV and a resume. If you’re applying for a job in academia (especially as an educator), for example, then you’ll probably need a CV. If you are applying for an industry-level job, however, a resume is likely the best choice. 

Summary

• The main differences between a CV and a resume are length, purpose, and content.
• Resumes are typically between one and two pages.
• CVs have no specified length restrictions but are often between three and ten pages.
• A resume is a concise summary of your professional accomplishments as they are relevant to the job you are applying for.
• A CV is a comprehensive document that offers in-depth information presenting your relevant academic and professional achievements and are often used when applying for either teaching or research positions. 
• When deciding whether to submit a resume or a CV, you should consider the job role and the geographic location of the position. 

Create the Perfect CV or Resume With BuzzCV!

Now that you know the difference between a CV and a resume, you’re prepared to use the right one depending on the job role you are applying for. But what’s the easiest way to create the perfect CV or resume? With BuzzCV, of course! Check out our free CV templates today to get started and register as a member for free today! 

As a member, you’ll have access to:

• Free CV templates
• Free Cover Letter Templates
• Digital CV
• Digital cover letter
• Personality test
• Job search
• Customer support

And don’t forget to always attach a cover letter to your CV when applying for a job. If you need help writing a cover letter we have the perfect article for you.

As important as it is to start your cover letter on a great note, the ending of your cover letter is equally as important. A great cover letter closing allows you to sign off with professionalism and it’s also your final opportunity to express genuine interest in the job. Additionally, the end of your cover letter is also your final chance to highlight the various ways that you can positively impact the company if hired for the job. A compelling ending not only ends the cover letter on a positive note but it also cements the fact that you are the ideal candidate for the job. So what is the best way to end a cover letter?

At BuzzCV, one of the most common questions we receive is centered around what the best way to end a cover letter is. Many people understand the importance of crafting a great closing statement but don’t know how to go about doing so. Today we will be offering you a few helpful tips so that you can learn the best way to end your cover letter. We’ll also be offering a few great cover letter ending examples so that you have an idea of what to work towards. Let’s get started!

How to End a Cover Letter Professionally

When you find yourself struggling to come up with a compelling ending for your cover letter, there are a few tips you should follow. Using these tips, you can create a cover letter ending that is memorable, increasing your chances of success. Here’s a few of BuzzCV’s best tips regarding the best way to end a cover letter.

Be Passionate

It’s a well-known fact that companies value passionate employees. A potential employer wants to hire someone that will always bring a passion for what they do to the job everyday. Your future employers want to know that you can motivate and inspire colleagues, solve problems effectively, and set ambitious yet attainable goals. 

For this reason, expressing your passion for the role or mission of the company you are applying to signals to potential employers that you are a valued and dedicated team member that they should consider hiring. Always let your passion for the job role shine through when ending your cover letter!

Express Confidence

As important as it is that you express your passion for the job role when ending your cover letter, it is equally crucial that you express confidence. Expressing your firm belief that you are both qualified and ready for the job you are applying for can go a long way towards convincing the hiring manager to move forward with your application. 

Be sure to use the closing of your cover letter to illustrate how your past accomplishments have enabled you to embrace new responsibilities and even tackle unexpected challenges. Employers are always the most interested in employees that are enthusiastic and express that they can quickly adapt to new situations. Express confidence in the end of your cover letter!

State Your Goals and Expectations

Employers are equally as impressed by high-energy job candidates who have the genuine intent and desire to contribute to the company. In the closing of your cover letter, give the hiring manager an idea of what they could expect from you. Talk about how your unique qualifications could be a valuable asset to the company if you are hired for the job. Rather than focusing on how the company can benefit you at the end of your cover letter, focus on how you can benefit the company. 

Connect Your Specific Talents to the Job Role

Throughout the entirety of your cover letter, you should be drawing connections between your unique past experiences and the requirements of the job itself. In the final sentences of your cover letter, be sure to tie this all together. This illustrates to the hiring manager that you plan to transfer your skills into actionable steps that will benefit the company. Make it clear that your specific talents will result in achieved goals and your exceeding of expectations.

Demonstrate Your Abilities to Meet the Company’s Goals

Hiring managers are often tasked with leading groups that are working towards a specific goal. In the closing of your cover letter, you should offer the hiring manager a preview of how you plan to achieve those goals. This may leave them curious and eager to learn more about what you can do to benefit their company. 

How can you identify what the company’s goals are? One of the best ways to do so is to read the job description and search the website for clues as to the company’s goals. If you are unable to find anything specific, it is in your best interest to focus on growth- the fact that the business has open positions suggests that growing the business is a high priority for the company.

Choose a Great Complimentary Closing

Finally, after writing an impactful closing sentence, you’ll want to sign off with a professional and polite closing. Remember though, a cover letter should have some degree of formality to it. You don’t want to be too casual in your complimentary closing. Here are a few examples of some strong closings that you should consider:

• Respectfully
• Thank You
• Sincerely
• Regards
• Best

In order to avoid sounding as though you’re writing a more casual letter to a family member or friend, you should avoid using more casual closings such as:

• Cheers
• Fondly
• Have a Wonderful Day
• Yours Truly
• Warm Regards

Examples of Great Cover Letter Endings

Now that you know some of the most important tips to remember when creating an ending for your cover letter, here are some helpful examples of great cover letter endings that you can use to guide you as you work. These cover letter examples illustrate each of the tips listed above and are considered professional and compelling endings for a cover letter.

• “I’m inspired by The Sesame Street Company’s success in supporting homegrown businesses, and I have many ideas in regards to marketing strategies that will increase profitability among that audience. I look forward to the opportunity to share these ideas with you.”

• I am intrigued by The Sesame Street Company’s sophisticated approach to transforming simple designs into awe-inspiring centerpieces. I would be delighted to apply my experience in quality assurance to launch original products that will grow brand loyalty.

• “In my career, I’ve consistently leveraged data while managing past marketing campaigns. This includes reviewing performance and making adjustments to improve email open rates by as much as 150 percent. I’m eager to apply what I’ve learned in this new role at The Sesame Street Company.”

Create the Perfect Cover Letter With BuzzCV!

Now that you know some of the best tips regarding creating the perfect cover letter ending and have seen a few examples of great cover letter endings, it’s time to create your own cover letter! Although creating a cover letter can feel like an overwhelming task, BuzzCV makes it easier than ever. Check out our free CV templates today to get started and register as a member for free today! 

As a member, you’ll have access to:

• Digital CV
• Digital cover letter
• Personality test
• Job search
• Customer support

With BuzzCV, you can create a winning cover letter in no time! Don’t forget that your cover letter needs to be accompanied with a professional CV. For more tips on how to write the perfect CV, check out our article on how to writing a perfect CV.

It’s not enough to just have a CV these days. You also have to have one with an eye-catching design as well as the right information to let a potential employer know that you’re the right candidate for the job. While many of us have used Microsoft Word in the past to craft a CV, there is now a new way to create a CV that lands you the job of your dreams: online CV builders. 

With an online CV builder, you can really help yourself stand out from the crowd. Best of all, you don’t have to spend any money to create a completely professional-looking resume that is built to impress. There are plenty of great templates out there that you can use based on those that have been used by successful applicants in the past. 

Today will be comparing Word vs Online CV Builders to let you know which is the best choice for creating your CV. We will be comparing each in order to answer which is the best choice when it comes to crafting your CV. With this article, it will soon be clear that the days of opening Microsoft Word and hacking out a CV are long gone- there is now a much better way. Let’s get started!

What is an Online CV Builder?

Before we compare online CV builders with Microsoft Word, it is important that you have a basic idea of what an online CV builder is. Put simply, an online CV builder is an online tool that allows you to create a resume that you can then download, print, and send to potential employers without having to worry about the ever-changing best practices of creating a resume. Most online CV builders will allow you to create a resume completely for free, however, not every online CV builder offers the same features.

Some online CV builders will let you enter your information before allowing you to download a printable version that is ready to be sent to employers. Other online CV builders will also give you the option to create a cover letter as well, and in some of them (like BuzzCV) you’ll even be given the option to create a personal resume website!

Why Online CV Builders Are Better Than Microsoft Word

Now that you know what an online CV builder is and how it works to help you build a professional resume, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of using one. We will also be taking a look at the pros and cons of using Microsoft Word to create your resume so that you have an understanding of why online CV builders are considered the best method. Let’s get started!

The Pros of Using an Online CV Builder

As it turns out, there are many pros associated with using an online CV builder when writing your resume. Online CV builders have become many people’s go-to when creating a winning resume and, as you’ll see, there are many reasons for this.

Minimal to No Technical Knowledge Required

One of the best things about using an online CV builder is the fact that they require little to no technical knowledge to use. Using an online CV builder, you can easily upload your information from a Word document or even enter it yourself manually. You don’t have to worry about formatting your resume, nor do you need to have any knowledge of more technical aspects such as coding knowledge in order to create a complimentary website to go along with it. All you have to do is simply upload your information and the online CV builder will take care of the rest for you!

Online CV Builders Are Low Maintenance

In most cases, online CV builders allow you to create several different versions of your resume that can be tailored specifically to the jobs that you are applying for. Once you’ve created your resume, you can download it and the accompanying website is automatically created for you. Again, there is no need to worry about the more technical aspects as an online CV builder takes care of these components for you.

Online CV Builders Offer Customizable Templates

Although it should be noted that the number of customizable templates varies by platform, almost every online CV builder has at least a few different templates that you can customize to your liking in terms of colors and fonts. You may even be able to choose formats and styles that are best for certain industries. The templates offered by an online CV builder make it easy to design your own resume, both in terms of a printable resume and a resume website.

The Cons of Using an Online CV Builder

As attractive and easy-to-use as online CV builders are, there are a few cons that should be noted in order to offer the most honest comparison between online CV builders and Microsoft Word for building a resume. That being said, the pros of using an online CV builder far outweigh the cons, making it the best option for creating a resume you can be proud of!

Less Control Over Your Content

One of the main drawbacks, for some, when it comes to using an online CV builder is the simple fact that you have less control over your content. The platform that you choose to create your resume could shut down at any point and, if that were to happen, your resume website would be lost and you’d have to start over again from scratch. That being said, the ability to create a resume website with an online CV builder with little to no technical knowledge far outweighs this possibility. 

Templates Are Easily Recognizable

Due to the limited number of templates available on most online CV builders, employers and hiring managers may be able to easily spot when someone is using an online resume template. Although there are plenty of customization options offered, they aren’t always as robust as the options available when creating a resume for yourself. With the time saved creating your resume with an online CV builder, however, this hardly seems like much of a con.

Some Aren’t Free

Finally, it should be noted that while many online CV builders are free, there are some online CV builders that only offer all of their amazing features for paid customers. While you may be able to create a CV for free, some may require that you pay to access all of the features. In most cases, however, these robust features are worth paying a little extra.

The Pros of Using Microsoft Word

Now that you know the pros and cons of using an online CV builder to build your resume and resume website, it’s time to look at Microsoft Word. Microsoft Word was long considered to be the best way to create a professional resume. That is, until online CV builders entered the picture and changed the game entirely. Let’s take a look at some of the pros of using Microsoft Word to create your resume. 

Professional-Looking Format

One of the most difficult parts of creating your resume is often getting the formatting right. Even if you know what you want it to look like, getting the spacing and font sizes all lined up can end up being a giant pain. When using a Microsoft Word template, the guesswork is mostly taken out of the process. Simply pick one and plug in your information.

Built-In Checklist

A Microsoft Word template will also break down all of the sections of your resume for you. From work history and education to skills and personal information, a Microsoft Word resume template will have all of the designated places for you to fill out yourself. This makes it easier to plug in all of your details without forgetting crucial information during the process.

The Cons of Using Microsoft Word

So what’s wrong with using Microsoft Word over an online CV builder to create your resume? It seems like the pros make it an easy choice, after all. That’s where you would be wrong, however. While Microsoft Word may have once been considered the best option for creating a resume, there are some cons that make it an outdated method to use overall.

It’s Harder to Stand Out From the Crowd

For one, when using Microsoft Word to create your resume, hiring managers see dozens, if not hundreds, of resumes each week and most of those are made by someone using a Microsoft Word template. While the templates help you design your resume, what you need to remember is they are also helping millions of other people create their resume the exact same way. When it comes to a job hunt, you don’t want to blend into the crowd. It’s better to stand out. Using a Microsoft Word resume template, it will be much more difficult to do so.

Not Optimized for the ATS

Secondly, Microsoft Word templates are not optimized for the ATS. Most of today’s employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to sort and rank all of the resumes they receive. If your resume doesn’t hit the right notes for that system, it is likely to end up in the reject pile and the hiring manager may not even see it. Regardless of whether or not you are the best candidate for the job you’re applying for, having a resume that isn’t optimized for the ATS may keep you hidden from prospective employers. This is a big con to consider when it comes to using Microsoft Word over an online CV builder.

Offers Outdated Resume Styles

Finally, if you’re using a Microsoft Word template, you might be using a template that is far outdated. Believe it or not, resumes are constantly evolving. Using a template that isn’t up to speed with the resume rules of today can immediately make you look out of touch. This isn’t the kind of first impression you want to make with a potential employer. Unfortunately, that’s what you’ll get when using a Microsoft Word resume template. 

The Choice is Clear: Use an Online CV Builder

As you can see from weighing the pros and cons of both online CV builders and Microsoft Word, the choice is clear: you should be using an online CV builder to create your resume and resume website. This online tool makes it easier than ever to create a professional-looking resume and resume website without much technical knowledge at all. Best of all, customizable templates make it easy for you to stand out from the crowd! 

Summary

So, in summary, why should you be using an online CV builder to create your resume and resume website?

• Minimal to no technical knowledge required
• Online CV builders are low maintenance
• Online CV builders offer many ultra-customizable templates to use

Create a Winning CV With the Best Online CV Builder: BuzzCV!

Now that you know why online CV builders are the key to creating a winning resume and resume website, it’s time to find one that can do it all for you! Luckily, you’ve already found the best of the best. Buzz CV offers certified resume templates recommended by recruiters and, using our platform, you can create your new CV and download it in as little as 10 minutes. Even further, our platform allows you to easily create a Digital CV/ CV Website without the hassle that can be sent to an employer as a link. This is the best way to represent yourself as a job candidate! Check out our CV templates today to get started and register as a member for free today! 

As a member, you’ll have access to:

• Free CV templates
• Digital CV
• Digital cover letter
• Personality test
• Job search
• Customer support

Online CV builders are the way of the future and there has never been an easier, faster, and hassle-free way to create a winning resume that wows future employers. Register today to become a member and start building your next resume!

We know that cover letters are a critical component of the job application process. When applying for a job, you should always send a cover letter with your resume unless the hiring manager specifically asks you not to. This is because your cover letter is your opportunity to make a great first impression, detailing your skills and embodying your personality. That being said, one thing that is often less clear to those who is writing a cover letter is how long a cover letter should be. After all, if your cover letter is too short it may come off as generic and lacking in effort and if your cover letter is too long, you may come across as unorganized or unfocused. This means that you have to find that perfect balance when it comes to creating a cover letter that impresses a potential employer. 

Remember, potential employers only spend a certain amount of time reading your cover letter. You can make the most of that time by including a brief but compelling description of both your qualifications and unique experiences- all without coming off as repetitive. Today, BuzzCV will be telling you exactly how long a cover letter should be as well as offering some helpful methods you can use to reach the correct length of a cover letter. Let’s get started!

How Long Should Your Cover Letter Be?

Put simply, as a general rule, cover letters should typically be between half a page and one page in length. According to a Saddleback College survey, 70 percent of employers wanted a cover letter of less than a full page and about 25 percent said that shorter was better. Your cover letter should be limited to about 4 paragraphs and each should open with a concise topic sentence and should close with an attention-grabbing final thought to keep the reader interested in you. Your cover letter should also include some vital components including:

• Date and contact information
• Greeting
• Opening paragraph
• Middle paragraph
• Closing paragraph
• Complimentary closing and signature

So how can you make sure that your cover letter is exactly the right length to impress a potential employer without wasting their time with repetitive details? In the next section, BuzzCV will be highlighting 7 different methods you can use to ensure that your cover letter is exactly the right length.

How to Reach the Correct Length For Your Cover Letter

Using these strategies, you can make sure that your cover letter wows any potential employer, representing you as the great employee that you are! Read on to make sure you know how to reach the correct length for your cover letter.

Always Check for Any Length Requirements

Before getting started on creating your cover letter, you should always check to see if the employer has specified any preferred length requirements. Sometimes, employers will include specific instructions regarding their preferences for your cover letter and resume. Always pay attention to these instructions! After all, you don’t want to come off as someone who can’t follow simple instructions when applying for a job. 

Some employers may give you a cover letter word limit or provide a specific writing prompt with questions that they want you to answer when applying. Make sure you identify whether or not a potential employer has set specific instructions and follow them!

Embrace the White Space

Believe it or not, white space makes your cover letter much more enjoyable for a hiring manager to read. For this reason, you should always break up your text by adding a blank line in between each paragraph and set 1-inch margins on each side. With lots of white space, your cover letter will look organized, well-formatted, and more pleasant to read than it would if you just filled it up with a wall of text. Less is more when it comes to a professional cover letter!

Don’t Become Too Focused on Hitting a Specific Word Count

If you have found yourself struggling with the question, “how many words should by cover letter be?”, you’re getting too stuck on the details. Unless the employer has specified otherwise, between 250 and 400 words is the right amount for a cover letter. With this length, you should be able to fill roughly half of a page or one full page if you are using 12-point font. At the same time, you’ll be leaving plenty of room for the correct margins and spacing. What’s most important here is to not get too wrapped up in the word count when creating your cover letter. Instead, focus on the content. Simply use the word count as a general guideline and focus on the substance of what you have to say.

Keep Your Cover Letter to 4 Paragraphs

As we have specified, generally your cover letter should be somewhere between a half a page and one full page. Using this space, you should divide the content of your cover letter into 3-4 short paragraphs that can be read in roughly 10 seconds or less. Remember, you want to represent yourself professionally but you also don’t want to take up too much of a hiring manager’s time! 

In these paragraphs, include a strong topic sentence and write just enough to prove why you are the best fit for the job role you are applying for. You should also use this space to display your enthusiasm to apply for the job and include relevant examples of why you’re the best fit for the position. Represent yourself thoroughly but don’t fill up 3 or 4 pages of text! A hiring manager is unlikely to keep reading for that long anyway.

Make Sure Your Paragraphs Are Focused and That Your Sentences Are Short

For the maximum impact, each of your 4 paragraphs should be well-focused on a singular idea. Lead with a strong topic sentence. This sentence will act to inform the reader what the paragraph that follows will be about. Next, be sure to add several short yet descriptive sentences that support the main idea that you have highlighted in your topic sentence. Finally, wrap up each of the 4 paragraphs with a concluding sentence that is attention-grabbing or a sentence that recaps the main idea that you presented in your topic sentence.

Here are a few examples of how to structure your cover letter paragraphs correctly:

• Topic sentence: One of the factors that really attracted me to this role is that [Company Name] values helping the community and providing the best customer experience to its customers.
• Descriptive sentences: In my spare time, I run administrative training workshops for the youth of our community. In these workshops, I serve as a mentor and teach the basics of an administrative job role.
• Concluding Sentence: As I grow in my career, applying my skills to assist others and make a larger impact on the world has become crucial and I believe this role with your company would give me that opportunity.

Include Relevant and Impactful Examples

The main goal of your cover letter should always be to provide highly relevant examples of why you are the best choice for the job role you are applying for. You should always look at the job description to get an idea of which of your qualifications and experiences you should include in your cover letter. Always match your skills to those that the employer is looking for in their ideal employee. Expand upon those qualifications by citing your most recent and impactful accomplishments in previous positions. 

Trim It Down If Needed

After drafting your cover letter, always take the time to proofread to identify any instances of grammatical errors or typos. In doing so, you should also determine whether or not you need to trim it down, focusing yourself a bit more. You can also have friends and family read over your cover letter and offer suggestions of things that you can omit to keep your content to the specified length. Always leave in your most impressive achievements but consider deleting wordy language or unnecessary details. Again, cover letters should never extend beyond one page- even for the most experienced candidates.

Summary

In summary, a professional cover letter should always be between half a page and one full page in length- no more and no less. To present yourself in the best possible light, stick to this general rule of thumb. You should also remember to follow the following tips when creating your cover letter to ensure you remain at the right length:

• Always Check for Any Length Requirements: Always follow the instructions given by a hiring manager!
• Embrace the White Space: Remember, white space is good and makes your cover letter more pleasant to read!
• Don’t Become Too Focused on Hitting a Specific Word Count: Instead of focusing on word count, focus on the content of your cover letter. You can always trim things down later!
• Keep Your Cover Letter to 4 Paragraphs: Keep your cover letter formatted in an organized, concise manner.
• Make Sure Your Paragraphs Are Focused and That Your Sentences Are Short: Refrain from being repetitive or using unnecessary details. Always get right down to the point in your cover letter.
• Include Relevant and Impactful Examples: Use highly-relevant examples of your previous accomplishments to present to a potential employer why you are the best choice for their company.
• Trim It Down If Needed: Take the time to proofread your cover letter and take out any wordy language or unnecessary details to keep it at the desired length.

Create the Perfect Cover Letter With BuzzCV’s Free Cover Letter Templates!

Now that you know how long a cover letter should be, it’s time for some extra help in the process of creating the perfect cover letter from BuzzCV! 

At BuzzCV, we offer a variety of cover letter templates that all but guarantee that you will land the job you want. Using our attractive, professional cover letter templates and knowledge of how to create a cover letter and resume that shows off your skills and value as an employee, you have the power to get hired quickly for the job that you want!

Check out our cover letter templates and register as a member for free today! As a member, you’ll have access to:

• Free professional CV templates
• Digital CV
• Digital cover letter
• Personality test
• Job search
• Customer support

Use the tips outlined above to keep your cover letter to the right length and craft a professional, winning cover letter with BuzzCV’s cover letter templates!

Writing a winning resume can be somewhat of a balancing act. Not only do you have to keep your resume fairly short and sweet, but you also have to include enough quality information to make a good first impression with potential employers. Further, when reviewing your credentials, hiring managers will have a particular interest in the skills you possess as a potential employee. For this reason, it is incredibly important to know what is relevant to the job you are applying for when thinking of the skills to list on your resume. And, of course, it’s important that the skills you put in your resume are actually skills that you possess.

At BuzzCV, we know that there is an endless number of skills that you can include on any resume but it’s up to you to decide which ones will be the most effective. It’s crucial to consider that there are skills that make you a more highly qualified employee for a job, ranging from hard, industry-specific skills to those soft skills that virtually every job demands. This begs the question: how do you figure out what the best skills to put in a resume are? Today, we will be answering that very question. We will also be including specific examples to give you a better idea of how to craft the skills section of your resume. Let’s get started!

Top Skills to Put in Your Resume

As highlighted, there are various skills that you should consider putting on your resume ranging from industry-specific skills to soft skills. In this section of the article, we will be detailing the top skills to put in your resume for both industry-specific and soft skills. These are the skills that potential employees like to see in a resume and will give you extra help when communicating your worth as a employee when applying for your next job. 

Top Soft Skills to Put in Your Resume

There are various soft skills that you should consider putting in your resume. These skills are the most common things that employers are looking for in a potential employee regardless of what the job entails specifically. Always include soft skills in your resume when crafting your skills section. So what are some of the most impressive soft skills to include in your resume?

Problem-Solving

Regardless of what the job is, eventually there will be obstacles and your potential employers want to know that you’re well-equipped to handle unexpected issues as they arise. This involves being capable of coming up with a rapid, effective solution to a variety of problems. In fact, there are a multitude of jobs that are centered around nothing but problem-solving, handling issues for the company, clients, or both as they pop up. Make sure that your employers know that you are capable of handling issues, big and small. 

Flexibility

Most companies, industries, and organizations hold an employee that is capable of adapting to any situation in high-esteem. An employee that has the natural ability to use a variety of methods and different approaches according to the circumstance in order to achieve the best end result tend to be the one that rises quickly through the ranks at their company. If you are a flexible employee who is capable of staying light on your feet, adapting to each new situation as it arises, make sure to include this in the skills section of your resume. 

Communication

Communication is one of the most important components of any thriving workplace. For an organization to operate on a daily basis, its team of employees need to have strong communication skills, conversing with each other and keeping conversation open at all times. Whether it is written or verbal, being able to communicate effectively with your boss, co-workers, and clients in all situations is telling of a valuable employee. One of the most important skills any potential employer is looking for in a prospective employee is the ability to communicate clearly and effectively. You simply can’t skip listing this skill on your resume if you want to stand out!

Critical Thinking

The basis of critical thinking is the ability to think logically and rationally even in high-pressure situations. Any employer is looking for an employee that can think through a project or problem and determine the best course of action to take. Critical thinkers are adept at coming up with new and better ways to work, making critical thinking an invaluable skill to include in the skills section of your resume. 

Creativity

The ability to think outside of the box and to come up with creative solutions to everyday problems can be a particular asset in any job role. Whether you are good at thinking about things in a way that hasn’t been done before or like to harness your creativity to lighten up the office on an everyday basis, this skill is something your employer should know about you. Be sure to list previous examples of times that you have used your creativity to find the solution to a problem, perhaps through a creative skill such as design or writing. 

Organization

The skill of organization is a must-have for any job role and the ability to stay organized means much more than just keeping your desk neat and tidy. Organization extends to the ability to organize tasks and projects for your coworkers, management, and especially, yourself. One of the best ways to really show of your organization skills is by creating a tightly structured resume so keep that in mind when you create your resume, whether you’re using a CV template (highly recommended) or creating your own structure.

Responsibility

A responsible employee is one that can be depended on by their employer, co-workers, and clients at all times. Part of being a good employee is taking responsibility for your job duties and even owning up to it when you make mistakes. Most managers prefer not to have to check in on their employees constantly to ensure that their job is being done the right way and, as a responsible employee, you ensure that they don’t have to. Responsibility means that you do what you need to do to complete the job tasks that you are responsible for. Don’t leave this soft skill off of your resume!

Attention to Detail

Finally, the last crucial soft skill that we recommend you list on your resume here at BuzzCV is attention to detail. When on the job, you need to ensure that you follow all instructions extensively in order to complete your assigned tasks. This is especially crucial when working with others. The ability to pay attention to the smaller details is essential at any job that you will ever have. The skill of attention to detail is a must for any employer as they consider prospective employees.

Top Industry-Specific Skills to Put in Your Resume

Now that you know some of the most important soft skills to put in a winning resume, it’s time to talk about a few of the top industry-specific skills, or hard skills, that you should consider. These skills tend to be more technical, and each industry or type of job will usually have its own required set. It is important that you research a potential job extensively in order to identify which industry-specific job skills they expect from applicants. Here are a few industry-specific skills that are considered highly valuable in a number of top industries.

Design

Aside from the obvious professions including web or graphic design, there are many jobs in a variety of industries ranging from marketing and advertising to construction that require some degree of design skills. Design skills are highly sought after in employees in a variety of industries so if you consider yourself a design-oriented employee, make sure to list this in the skills section of your resume.

Project Management

Various jobs require project management skills. The ability to complete assignments on time and effectively manage your task flow are essential parts of project management. If you have used project management software in a previous job role or have used project management skills to complete a major project before the established deadline in the past, make sure to list these examples in the skills section of your resume!

Knowledge of Computer Software and Applications

In a world where technology and a knowledge of computer software and applications is essential in a variety of different industries, this is an important industry-specific skill to have. In fact, the list of professions that do not require you to use computers or applications on a daily basis in your job role is incredibly short. Don’t leave this skill out when crafting the skills section of your resume!

Administrative

Even if your job isn’t necessarily administrative in nature, it’s likely a part of your job role in one way or another regardless of industry. Administrative skills involve the ability to organize, plan, schedule, write emails, and manage files, and these skills show potential employers that you are well-equipped to take hold of the details if hired. 

Writing

There are many jobs out there that involve writing to some extent. Whether it’s to clients or co-workers, having a basic writing ability is necessary and an absolute skill that should be included on your resume. After all, emails that are full of typos and grammatical errors will not represent you very professionally in your job role and tend to send the wrong message about your abilities. Demonstrate that you have this skill by crafting a CV that highlights your writing abilities.

Marketing

Finally, even if you are not a marketer per se, many companies desire an employee with marketing skills. Marketing involves selling and promoting products or services. Knowing the benefits and highlights of your company’s products and/or services can be valuable to a slew of different job roles. If you have any specific marketing or social media marketing expertise, that’s even better!

Here are some examples of a few more soft and industry-specific (hard) skills that you may want to include in the skills section of your resume according to Indeed.com’s Career Guide:

Consider the Job Listing

If you’re still unsure about which skills to use after reading our list of soft and industry-specific skills to include in your resume, you can get some help choosing by considering the job listing. Read through the job description for the job you are applying for a few times and you’re likely to notice 3-4 essential skills that the employer is looking for. If this is the case, it’s best to focus on these skills as you create your CV and resume to represent yourself in the best possible light.

How to Create the Skills Section of Your Resume

Now that you know what skills to put in a resume in order to wow potential employers and land yourself the job of your dreams, it’s time to learn how to create the skills section of your resume. There are a few different steps that you should follow to organize the skills section of your resume effectively. Let’s take a closer look at these steps!

Step 1: Sort By Relevance

Let’s say that you’re applying for a job in the sales field. If that’s the case, your prior experience as a hairstylist is likely not the most relevant to this job field. Instead, you’ll want to emphasize experience that is directly applicable to a role in sales. If you lack the experience, however, search through your existing positions for key skills that may be relevant to sales. Always sort by relevance when creating the skills section of your resume!

For example, if you were responsible for working with customer service (scheduling clients and checking them out at the end of their appointment as a hairstylist) this is something that can be an interchangeable skill to a sales role and you can include it in the skills section of your resume. 

Step 2: Add a Highlights Section

Next, it’s important that you add a highlights section to your resume. The resumes of today are structured to be value-oriented and this requires you to provide information that is more achievement-oriented as opposed to strictly task-based. If you have had multiple job roles with varying achievements, for example, select the top four that you are the most proud of and incorporate these into a Career Highlights section on your resume. Keep this section well-structured and organized to demonstrate organizational skills that will prove impressive to potential employers. 

Step 3: Categorize by Job Skill

With either your task-based information or achievements, you can categorize the content into sections to illustrate the diversity in your responsibilities. This is best if you are higher up in your career level and have multiple responsibilities that span several platforms or departments. If you are a manager or director of operations at a company, for example, your responsibilities may include the following: managing staff, communicating with vendors, and hiring and training staff. 

In this case, you’ll want to categorize by job skill in a format that looks similar to the following example:

• Customer Service: Include examples of ways that you have maintained and improved the customer experience at your previous company. 
• Change Management: Include examples of ways that you have effectively restructured staff, developed training programs, or coached employees on the expectations of the company.
• Process Improvements: Include examples of responsibilities and/or achievements related to the creation and implementation of processes centered around improving operational efficiencies.

Summary

In summary, here are a few things you need to keep in mind when it comes to what skills to put in a resume:

• Include important soft skills that are highly-desired across a variety of industries
• Include industry-specific (hard) skills that are valuable to employers across a variety of the top industries
• Sort the skills listed in your skills section by relevance to the job you are applying for
• Add a highlights section that provides achievement-oriented examples of your skills
• Categorize and organize the skills section according to job skill, highlighting examples of the ways you used these skills in previous job roles

Perfect Your Resume With BuzzCV! 

At BuzzCV, we offer a variety of cover letter templates that all but guarantee that you will land your dream job. Using our stunning cover letter templates and knowledge of how to create a cover letter and resume that shows off your skills and value as an employee, you have the power to get hired quickly at the price that you name. Check out our cover letter templates and register as a member for free today! As a member, you’ll have access to:

• Free CV templates
• Digital CV
• Digital cover letter
• Personality test
• Job search
• Customer support

Start on your cover letter and resume today with these helpful tips surrounding what skills to put in a resume. You’re sure to land the job of your dreams in no time based off of your valuable job skills! 

At BuzzCV, we know that whether you actually enjoying writing cover letters or view them as more of a chore, it remains a fact that many hiring managers still rely on cover letters to form their first impression about a potential employee. From gauging your personality, communication skills, and attention to detail, your cover letter acts as a method of telling a potential employer who you are and what you’re all about. This means that the key to writing an effective cover letter is to follow instructions and communicate clearly while harnessing a compelling voice that gets an employer interested in you and what you have to offer. Today, BuzzCV will be highlighting how to write a cover letter, giving you the ultimate guide to crafting a cover letter that impresses your future boss, winning you the job position you’ve always wanted. Let’s get started!

What is a Cover Letter?

Before we get to how to write a cover letter in detail, it’s crucial that you have an understanding of what a cover letter is and what it’s used for. Put simply, a cover letter is an important tool that is used to assist you in introducing yourself to a potential employer. An effective cover letter should be both memorable and personal, describing who you are and giving an employer a good idea of who you are and what you bring to the table. A well-crafted cover letter goes over the information that is included in your resume and expands upon this information for the reader, guiding them through your career and life achievements. While your resume is intended to lay out the facts, your cover letter is meant to convey more of your unique personality. 

Remember, your cover letter acts as your first introduction to the person that may hire you and first impressions are everything. For this reason, it’s important that you know exactly how to craft a cover letter that describes you and represents you as a quality employee. It’s also important that you create a unique cover letter for each job that you are applying to. The format of your cover letter should also match that of the company and industry that you are applying to. 

Why is a Cover Letter Important?

So why is your cover letter so important? Put simply, your cover letter is more than just a formality or courtesy- it’s a valuable opportunity to impress potential employers. Research suggests that employers highly favor resumes that are accompanied by a cover letter, making it a critical component of your job-searching strategy. Your cover letter is also important because it is your opportunity to show the reader your immediate value, personality, that you are a unique fit for their company, and that you are enthusiastic about working for that company. This is why you should take writing your cover letter very seriously!

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter in Just 9 Steps!

Now that you understand what a cover letter is and why it’s fundamentally important, it’s time to learn how to write the perfect cover letter with 9 steps outlined by BuzzCV. We are experts when it comes to crafting the perfect cover letter and we have established these 9 steps to assist you in creating one that wins you your dream job! Let’s get started.

Step 1: List Your Name and Address

The first step to writing a cover letter is fairly simple. As with many standard business letters, you should include a few pieces of vital identifying information at the top of your cover letter. This includes your name and address. Some people may choose to center their name and address at the top of the page, mirroring their resume. That would look something like this:

John Smith

1234 Sesame Street, Apple Town, NY | (555) 123-1234 | jsmith@email.com

Otherwise, you may decide to simply list each individual piece of information on a new line oriented to the left-hand side of the page. That would look something like this:

John Smith

jsmith@email.com

1234 Sesame Street

Apple Town, NY

(555) 123-1234

Step 2: Include the Date

Next, you’ll want to include the date of the day that you are sending the letter. Remember, the date should be situated separately from your address and the recipient’s name and address (which we will include in Step 3).

Step 3: List the Recipient’s Name and Address

After including the date, it’s time to list the recipient’s name and information. You can likely find these details by looking at the company’s website or by locating this information in the job listing that you are applying to. The top part of your letter, after adding this, should look something like the following:

John Smith

jsmith@email.com

1234 Sesame Street

Apple Town, NY

(555) 123-1234

May 10, 20XX

John Doe

Sesame Street Inc.

4321 Sesame Street

Apple Town, NY

Step 4: Start With a Great Introduction

Next, we’ll include the first introduction to the reader. You should always start the introduction of your cover letter with something like “Dear” or “Hello”. This is your first greeting to your potential employer so ensure that it is short, sweet, and professional.

Step 5: Include an Opening Paragraph

With Step 5, we have our first chance to really wow your potential employer. Write an introductory paragraph that includes the position you are applying for. You should also include a well-written statement surrounding your enthusiasm in regards to both the job role and the company itself. This is your very first opportunity to make a great first impression within your cover letter so take it seriously!

Step 6: Include a Second Paragraph Detailing Your Background

Next, your cover letter’s second paragraph should include a brief overview of your background as is relevant to the position you are applying for. Here, it is important that you discuss some of your key achievements (again, making them relevant to the job that you are applying for), your job skills (click here for our article on What Skills to Put in a Resume), as well as specialties that make you a unique fit for this particular job position. Focus on one or two in order to keep this section organized and concise, and provide specific details about your previous success, including any measurable impacts you have made on previous companies. 

It’s a good idea to pay close attention to any keywords found in the job description of the job that you are applying for when organizing this section of your cover letter. Include those that you identify with in the body of your cover letter to make a good first impression. It’s a good idea to only include information about your most recent one or two professional experiences in this section of your cover letter.

Step 7: Include a Third Paragraph Further Describing Why You Are Uniquely Qualified

In the third paragraph of your cover letter, you should focus on another key achievement or skill that is relevant to the position that you are applying for. Instead of repeating details from your resume, expand on specific stories or anecdotes that display your fitness for the role. This section is your chance to go into a bit more detail and really highlight your personality so that the reader has an idea of what they can expect from you.

Step 8: Offer a Summary of Your Unique Qualifications

In the closing paragraph of your cover letter, you should offer a summary that recaps the reasons that you are applying for this particular job and why you would be the perfect fit. Keep this closing conclusion brief and explain that you look forward to hearing from the employer with the next steps in the process. 

Step 9: End With Your Signature

Finally, finish off your cover letter by signing your name in pen after typing out a closing salutation such as “Sincerely” or “All the best”. 

Using the steps outlined above, you will be able to write a cover letter that impresses any potential employer and gets you called in for a job interview in no time! Remember, use these steps to effectively outline why you are uniquely qualified for this position and let your unique personality shine through while remaining professional. 

Summary

In summary, it’s important to remember a few things when writing your cover letter, including the steps that you should follow in crafting the perfect cover letter:

• Remember why a cover letter is important- it’s your opportunity to make a great first impression and explain why you are uniquely qualified for the position you are applying for!
• List your name and address
• Include the date
• List the recipient’s name and address
• Start with a great introduction
• Include an opening paragraph
• Include a second paragraph detailing your background
• Include a third paragraph further describing why you are uniquely qualified
• Offer a summary of your unique qualifications
• End with your signature

Craft a Winning Cover Letter With BuzzCV!

Now that you know how to craft a winning cover letter, it’s time for some extra help in the process from BuzzCV! 

At BuzzCV, we offer a variety of cover letter templates that all but guarantee that you will land your dream job. Using our stunning cover letter templates and knowledge of how to create a cover letter and resume that shows off your skills and value as an employee, you have the power to get hired quicker than you could have ever expected! 

Check out our cover letter templates and register as a member for free today! As a member, you’ll have access to:

• Free CV templates
• Digital CV
• Digital cover letter
• Personality test
• Job search
• Customer support

Start on your cover letter using the steps outlined above and go above and beyond to impress potential employers with BuzzCV’s cover letter templates! You’ll land your dream job in no time.

While many who are searching for a new job may believe that salary negotiation begins once a job offer is in hand, this couldn’t be further from the truth of the matter. In fact, salary negotiation begins the moment you sit down to craft your cover letter and write your CV. Both your cover letter and CV can make a huge difference in your salary negotiation efforts when landing your next job offer. 

At BuzzCV, we understand the power that an outstanding cover letter and CV can have on not only getting hired but negotiating a higher salary. Today, we will be highlighting the importance of creating a cover letter and CV that proves your worth as an employee in terms of salary negotiation. We will also be sharing some of our best tips for creating a cover letter and CV that is sure to impress and assist you in negotiating the salary that you deserve. Let’s get started!

Why Your Cover Letter and CV is Important for Salary Negotiation

First impressions are nearly impossible to change. When a prospective employer receives your cover letter and CV, it generates a first impression about your value as an employee. This can prove a large determining factor when it comes to salary negotiations. For this reason, it is important that your cover letter and CV is crafted to impress and prove your value as a potential employee.

If your cover letter and CV sells your skills short as an employee, you will have a much more difficult time receiving offers or negotiating a salary at the upper end of your salary scale. In fact, your current cover letter and CV could potentially be costing you thousands of dollars in income. In order to negotiate a higher salary, it is important that you know how to craft a cover letter and CV that not only assigns value to you as an employee but creates a sense of urgency to contact you in a prospective employee.

Putting in the effort to craft a winning cover letter and CV means you will have an easier time setting your price when it comes time to receive a job offer. It is equally important to use the power of your cover letter and CV to open the door for salary renegotiation in future job positions so it’s best to plan for the future when creating yours. So how can you create a cover letter and CV that translates to a higher salary for your new job? BuzzCV is here with all of the answers you need to get started!

Cover Letter and CV Strategies for Successful Salary Negotiation

There are three main strategies you can use to create a cover letter and CV that successfully translates into a higher salary at your new job. Each of these strategies work to communicate your value as an employee, create a great first impression, and entice prospective employers into wanting to know more about you. BuzzCV is here to offer three strategies you can use today to create a cover letter and CV that awards you the salary you deserve. 

Prove That You Can Provide a High Return on Investment

The first step in creating a cover letter and CV that results in a higher salary is proving that you can provide a high return on investment. Employers are very familiar with cover letters and CV’s that use the phrase “results-oriented” but, oftentimes, don’t receive concrete evidence that backs up this quality. When creating your own cover letter and CV with salary negotiation in mind, it is essential that you are able to provide quantifiable results to communicate your value as an employee. 

If you feel that you don’t have quantifiable evidence of your value as an employee from previous jobs, don’t worry! You aren’t alone. Fortunately, BuzzCV is here to tell you that every job has something you can use to provide proof that you can produce quantifiable results. This translate to a higher degree of value when communicated properly through your cover letter and CV. So what forms of quantifiable results can you use to prove that you can provide a high return on investment that is deserving of a higher salary? 

Many job-seekers believe that the only quantifiable evidence of value that can be used on cover letters and CV is revenue, material costs, and sales dollars but this is, fortunately, far from being the case. In fact, there are a slew of factors that you can use as quantifiable evidence. Here are just a few examples of numbers you can use to accurately translate your value as an employee:

• Percentage of repeat customers
• Person-hours saved in improvements that you introduced
• Particular efficiencies that you used to assist peers and how many peers were assisted

Each of these numbers-based factors accurately provide quantifiable evidence that you return results. Employers want employees that are able to provide evidence of their value and that they are worthy of a higher salary. Many employers, being business owners, operate in a investment-centered mindset. If you are able to prove to them that you can return results on their investment (a higher salary), you will have a much better chance of receiving the salary you feel you deserve. Use this cover letter and CV strategy to your advantage when operating with salary negotiation in mind!

Accurately Communicate Your Experience

In order to win the salary that you deserve during the salary negotiation process, you have to do even more to convince potential employers of your worth. Think of the salary negotiation process similarly to shopping for a product. Before you make a purchase, especially an expensive one, it is likely that you do the necessary research to determine whether or not that product is deserving of your hard-earned cash. Just as you want all of the facts before purchasing a product, employers want to know that you can bring value and, most notably, experience that is worthy of their investment. 

Aside from offering employers proof of your ability to return results through quantifiable evidence, it is important that you are able to provide proof of your experience. This doesn’t just mean length of experience. After all, an employee can hold a job for a long period of time and still only do just enough to maintain standards. You need to convince employers that you have experience excelling in your job role when crafting your cover letter and CV. When communicating your experience, include the quality of your experience rather than the quantity. This will prove most effective in later salary negotiations with your employer.

Leave Them Wanting More

Finally, the key to cv template and cover letter that works to provide proof of your deservance of a higher salary is to entice the reader to want to know more about you. At BuzzCV, we believe that the purpose of a cover letter and CV is not primarily to inform your employer but, rather, to entice them to want to know more about you. This is what lands job interviews and gives you the chance to further provide evidence of your value face-to-face. 

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When creating your cover letter and CV, include the necessary information to translate your ability to provide quantifiable results and experience without using too much detail. Make your cover letter and CV clear and concise, telling potential employers just enough to get them to call you in for an interview. Your job interview is your next best chance to negotiate a higher salary, cover letter and CV in hand.

Use BuzzCV to Get Hired Fast at the Salary You Deserve!

At BuzzCV, we offer a variety of cover letter templates that all but guarantee that you will land your dream job at the salary you want. Using our stunning cover letter templates and knowledge of how to create a cover letter and CV that assists you in salary negotiation, you have the power to get hired quickly at the price that you name. Check out our cover letter templates and register as a member for free today! As a member, you’ll have access to:

• Free CV templates
• Digital CV
• CV examples for inspiration
• Digital cover letter
• Personality test
• Job search
• Customer support

Start on your cover letter and CV today with these helpful tips. You’re sure to land your dream job at your dream salary in no time! 

For us, it is important to create CV templates that suit everyone’s needs and for this reason we have developed a large selection of free CV templates. A good CV is the first step in the pursuit of your dream job and therefore it is important for us to help you create the perfect CV.

It can be difficult to know what a CV should look like and how it should be structured. With our templates you do not have to think about that and can instead focus on the content to create a well-written and effective CV. 

All templates are created together with recruiters and designers which gives you a professional resume that stands out when you apply to a job. This means that you will be called to more interviews.

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New Updated CV Templates

A good layout and a clear structure on your CV are important and for this reason we have developed several different templates. With our templates, your CV is easy to read, neat and gives the recruiter a good first impression. For us, it is important that our templates suit all different types of employment and therefore we make sure that they are always updated to suit your needs.

The idea of the templates is that all professional groups should be able to use them, and therefore different templates can fit some services better than others. If you are looking for a more creative job you may want to look at one of the more playful templates, while if you are looking for an administrative job can look at one of the templates with a more classical look.

Personalize Your Chosen CV Template

When you have decided which template you want to use, you have the opportunity to make it completely personal by choosing the color of the details, changing the font, changing the text size and rearranging all sections in the CV or adding your own special sections. 

The styling options you choose will never affect your readability or risk ruining your CV. All choices are designed to customize and make your CV personal without losing information. No matter what choices you make, you will still have a professional resume that you can be proud of.

If you ever want to change the template it is very easy, all your information is saved and easily transferred to the new template you choose. You never have to worry about doing the same work twice.

Create a Digital CV

All templates are tested and optimized to work on several types of devices. All templates are therefore perfect to send digitally, but are also made to be able to print if you prefer to give a physical copy to the employer.

There are several benefits to having a digital CV. For example, you can link to your social media directly in your resume which you can easily find with the push of a button. This way you can easily invite recruiters to your social platforms to get a clear overall image of you. Just be careful about the content of the media you are linking to, double check that you do not have any pictures that could risk scaring off potential employers.

Free Cover Letter Templates

In addition to CV templates, we also create free templates for cover letters. Using the templates, you can easily create a matching layout and give a better overall impression with your application. The cover letter template works in the same way as the CV templates and you can easily customize them to your preferences and needs.

In a cover letter, there is more space for free text and a chance to really show who you are. It can be challenging for many to know what to write and therefore we have produced a guide on how to write a cover letter, where you will find everything to inspire and help with the writing process.

Streamline Your Job Search

With our CV builder and our resume templates you streamline your job search and easily get a professional and well-structured resume with a matching personal letter. We are here to make a process, which otherwise can be difficult, smooth and fun. We want to help you easily achieve your dream job!

We wish you the best of luck with your job hunting!