diff --git a/what should be here.txt b/what should be here.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..56665aa --- /dev/null +++ b/what should be here.txt @@ -0,0 +1,36 @@ +A CV should be a focused, well-structured document that clearly answers "why should I interview this person?". Here's a breakdown of what to include: + +Essential Sections (Always Include) +These core sections appear on virtually every CV, in this order: + +Contact Information — Full name, phone number, professional email, city/country (no full address needed), and optionally LinkedIn or a portfolio link + +Professional Summary — 3–4 sentences at the top highlighting your strengths, key skills, and the value you bring to the role + +Work Experience — Listed in reverse chronological order; include job title, company, dates, and bullet points starting with action verbs that show outcomes, not just duties + +Education — Degree, institution, and graduation year; recent graduates should place this above work experience + +Skills — A mix of hard skills (tools, software, languages) and soft skills (communication, leadership); only list skills not already obvious from your experience + +High-Value Optional Sections +Include these only if they genuinely add signal: + +Certifications & Courses — Especially relevant if recent or industry-specific + +Projects / Portfolio — Very valuable for entry-level candidates or career changers; include links (GitHub, Behance, etc.) + +Languages — List with clear proficiency levels (Native, Fluent, Conversational) + +Volunteering / Awards / Publications — Add only if directly relevant to the role + +Hobbies & Interests — Generally the lowest priority; include only if they reflect relevant traits + +Key Principles to Keep in Mind +Principle Why It Matters +Quantify achievements Numbers make claims credible ("increased traffic by 30%") +Tailor to each role Generic CVs are easily filtered out by ATS and recruiters +Use action verbs Starts bullets with impact ("Managed", "Delivered", "Increased") +Keep it to 5–7 sections More than 8 sections usually adds noise, not signal +Avoid full home address City + country is sufficient; employers prefer digital contact +Recruiters spend just 6–10 seconds on an initial CV scan, so clarity and relevance are far more important than length or completeness.