As AI takes over in this modern age, it is good to use it in a smart way to get the results you want. If you want good answers, you ask good questions. This time around I asked AI about the number one CV mistake most of us don’t know about and its answer was unexpected.
AI has now been an integral part of certain areas of our lives either professional or academic. Even though it can generate computer-based responses, if asked properly it can also produce very good results.
AI is not just limited to ChatGPT, there is a whole world of artificial intelligence each with its own purpose that you can use for your needs.
As I was helping a friend with updating their CV, I came across a tool called TopCV that helps you write your CV in a compelling way. I would say it is better than the outdated Microsoft Word documents we are all familiar with.
Even if it heavily advertises itself as The world’s leading CV‑writing service and that it can get you hired faster with a job-winning CV— which is an overstatement for sure, it has great suggestions that can help you build a compelling CV.
Read: What you should and should not include in your CV
I asked the tool which one CV mistake most of us don’t know about and its answer was that most of us write our job descriptions and titles instead of writing our achievements. It said, “You come across as a “doer,” rather than an “achiever.”
That means that they tell you what you did, instead of what you achieved. This is a normal mistake for non-professional CV writers. To inspire and generate intrigue, a great CV helps the employer imagine you delivering similar achievements at his or her company.
For example, if you are a Sales Executive, some write on their CV that they Identified and pursued potential clients which is something your role is expected to do. But if you want to stand out for your employer there is another way to go about it.
You can for example say, you met or exceeded monthly, quarterly, and annual sales targets set by the company by a certain percentage. This is also why you should keep track of your achievements within your organization.
Employers want to learn about your previous achievements and specifically how you’ve helped make an impact. More importantly, they want to know how you are going to make a significant difference in their organization.
In reading your CV, your employer should find the kind of active language that would bring your work to life.
If you are a receptionist for example, instead of saying you worked closely with other staff to ensure seamless operation and communication throughout the office, you can say you reduced significantly miscommunication errors that affected the company (You can give a percentage if you tracked).
You can tailor it based on your past experiences and the job you are applying for.
