Contractor Questions: How to get my CV noticed

Contractor’s Question:

Despite some success in the last few months of 2009, I need to try something different with my CV in order to push it towards the top of the pile. Aside from the basic sections on a CV, what one thing do IT recruiters really want to see?

Expert’s Answer:

I always have the same advice for IT contractors regarding their CV: Detach yourself emotionally from your CV, it's not an autobiographical novel on your work history. It has one sole purpose - to get you an interview.

Make it easy for the reader/agent to select you by keeping the information simple and straightforward - focus on achievements and, if possible, testimonials to back up your achievements, together with work history. However, be careful. IT candidates tend to go into too much detail on their CVs. IT contractors, for example, often overcomplicate their CVs by adding in lists of additional skills, which is too much information.

The expert was Philip Fanthom, Managing Director of IT contractor recruitment consultancy Jenrick IT.

More information:

To view the full article - Contractor UK website: "Helping my CV stand out"

Contractors Advice - Hints and Tips for IT Contractors