Have you sent your CV to recruiters or applied for multiple jobs on the recruitment websites but haven't heard back from them about any relevant jobs? This is one of the most frequent complaints that we receive from job seekers. We understand that many of you expect an interview or an update from the recruiter after applying for a job. But imagine, a recruiter usually receives 1000+ CVs in a week, sometimes even in a day. If they have to finish scanning all those CVs and interview everyone, it will be an endless process that they couldn't even contact a company to find vacancies to introduce the candidates to. So, how do they select which ones to devote their time to? Most of the decisions are quickly made based on the information that you provided on your CV and how likely you are a match to their open positions.

A quick overview of the recruiting process - a recruiter conducts the process of shortlisting after sourcing candidates, that means they find or attract candidates and source from different channels such as website, social media, LinkedIn, job portals, referral, etc. After that the candidate data is inputted to their system, then recruiters review CVs and shortlist candidates. In order to get an interview or screening session, your CV must be shortlisted first.

Here are a few tips that will help your CV stand out from the crowd when a recruitment consultant reviews it.

Be sure you are the right fit for the job

Don't just apply to jobs that you find on recruitment websites or job portals that you think would pay a good salary or sound great. Only apply to the jobs which match your experiences and skills and are a realistic fit. Qualifications which are required for a job are usually listed in the requirement section of the job link or ads. You need to take a closer look at the role or job description and make sure your experiences meet the role.

Show the employer that you're qualified

Better not to send the same generic CV to apply for different jobs. Take time to tailor it by including the qualifications and skills that the company is looking for so the recruiter knows that you are the right fit for the role. The employer wants to know what you achieved, not just what you have done. Show off your achievements!

Include data or details

Let the numbers do the talking.

'In my previous role, I led the team to generate sales and increase revenue.'

'In my previous role, I increased sales by 20% and surged revenue from $3 million to $5 million, a gain of 67% while leading a regional team of 10 employees, across 3 time zones.'

Which statement sounds more impressive?

Most recruiters probably choose the second statement. The second statement not only talks about the candidate's achievement, it also shows the scope of work in depth.

Focus on formatting and make it easy to read

• Font type, font size, margin alignment, bullet points should be consistent.

• Use a professional font, such as Times New Roman, Arial or Garamond

• The font size of the body text should be 11 or 12 with slightly larger font for your headers

• Set margin to 1 inch or slightly greater on all sides of your page

• Try to limit your CV to one or two pages if you have less than 5 years experience, or four pages if you have worked for more than 5 years

• Use the right file format such as Microsoft Word or PDF

Develop a professional network

You cannot just sit down and keep applying for jobs. It is important to establish a professional network within your business sector. Connect with industry leaders and recruiters on LinkedIn and engage with them for future career prospects. Recruiters normally post their job openings on their LinkedIn profile so you will be the first to know if you have them in your connections.

Final check: Does your CV tick all the boxes that a recruiter might be looking for?

Before you apply for a job or send your CV to a recruiter, ask these questions -

• Does your CV feature all your relevant skills and expertise?

• Does it meet the job requirements?

• Is it in the correct and professional format?

• Have you checked spelling and grammar or let someone proofread your CV?

Remember creating a catchy CV might not be tough, but getting your CV shortlisted and noticed by a recruiter can be a challenge. Make sure your CV is appealing to recruiters as it is the first impression and the key player to their decision making.