Yes, your CV is a marketing document. You’re selling a service: your technical skills. Approach it like you’re selling your brand—what you’ve done, what you’re good at, and where you’re headed. Write down everything, then refine it until it’s clear and concise.
I’m a fan of the One-Page CV. Here’s how to structure it:
Header
Include your name and contact info, such as email, phone, LinkedIn, GitHub, blog, etc., so recruiters can easily reach you!
Why include LinkedIn and GitHub?
Your LinkedIn profile is a crucial source for recruiters. Keep it updated and ask for recommendations—from colleagues, mentors, or peers who can vouch for your work.
Your GitHub showcases your code, so ensure it’s clean and professional. Add a ReadMe with setup instructions, and even consider including screenshots or a demo video.
Profile/Summary
This section should grab attention. Tailor your profile to the job, aligning your skills with the employer’s needs. Use key terms like teamwork, clean code, tests, and collaboration.
Be personal! Tell them about yourself and your passions. Instead of “I participated in a team,” say, “I contributed to a team developing a framework that improved…”. Show your passion and dedication.
Pro Tip: Avoid using a skill rating system (e.g., 3/5 in JavaScript). Simply list the skills. They know you’re still learning as a junior, so don’t undervalue yourself.
Experiences (Top 3)
Highlight three relevant experiences or projects that align with the job description. No job experience? List your GitHub projects.
Ensure your GitHub is neat and organized, ready for recruiters to review anytime. Templates can help you structure your repositories and even create a GitHub-based CV.
Tailor your experiences, too. Adjust descriptions to emphasize the most relevant skills for the job you’re applying to. Keep a master CV with detailed descriptions, then adapt it for each application.
Conclusion
Your CV is your story, a snapshot of you as a professional. You’ll make a lasting impression by tailoring it to the job, keeping it concise, and showing your passion. Remember, it’s not just about listing skills—it’s about selling your unique value and showing you’re ready to thrive.