Why you should update your CV for 2016

When was the last time you updated your CV? Weeks, months – even years - ago? If you have an out of date CV lurking in your computer files then it’s time for an update. Your CV is your opportunity to sell yourself – it is the first impression a company will have of you, and it’s vital to get it right first time.

Refreshing your CV each year is good practice, whether you’re actively looking for a new role or not. It means the information is kept up to date, your achievements and skills are refreshed and should any unforeseen changes in your employment take place, then you’re ready to hit the ground running with your job search.

Investing just a couple of hours will make sure your CV is the best it can be.

Add missing detail

Quickly adding your most recent position at the top of your CV is never a good idea as you will forget about your key achievements.

In the time since you last updated your CV it’s essential to think about what you have achieved and how you have developed in the role.

Make sure your CV shows clearly what you have achieved and give a flavour of what you can bring to a new organisation. Maybe you’re an active member of your company’s charity committee, or you took part in a mentoring programme – or perhaps this was the year you took a professional qualification. Whatever it is, shout about it – it’s an asset to your CV.

Change your career goals

Your CV is a fantastic place to reflect on and change your career goals as you progress professionally. Take a look back at your outdated CV and ask yourself if it is still an accurate description of you.

If your aspirations and goals have changed it’s time to reflect that on your CV. Showing your evolution both professionally and personally is a guaranteed way to stand out from the crowd.

Taking a look at different CV formats, for example a chronological or skills-based CV, could refresh your CV without changing much of the content. By reprioritising content you are able to promote your best attributes to prospective employers.

Update your online presence

Updating your CV will give you the opportunity to have a more streamlined and cohesive online presence to partner your CV.

As you begin to change your CV and add that extra detail, make sure that your LinkedIn account and Twitter bio also benefits from these changes.

Use your new CV as the foundation blocks to breathe new life into your social media accounts. A prospective employer will be sure to check your online presence – making sure it aligns with your CV is a must in today’s online world.

Boost your confidence

Many of us are guilty of falling into routines at work and it’s easy to feel that there is no need to update your CV.

What is often overlooked when updating your resume is the power it has to boost your morale and give your confidence a much needed boost.

On the days and weeks where you achieve something special at work be sure to make a note of it and include it on your CV.

By updating your CV little and often you make sure you always stay one step ahead. So what’s stopping you? Start today!