Spring cleaning our homes is second nature, but how often do we clean up our CVs? Like clearing out old gadgets and cables, refreshing your CV clears space for new career opportunities. Whether you’re job hunting or keeping an eye out for exciting ERP roles, updating your CV ensures you’re ready when the right role comes along.
Start with a clear vision
On average, we spend one-third of our lives at work. Let’s make it count. Before tackling your CV, picture your ideal tech role.
- Which systems do you want to work in?
- What industries align with your expertise?
- Are you focused on ERP, cloud computing, digital transformation, or automation?
Define your career non-negotiables, whether it’s cloud-first environments, automation projects, project management or leadership opportunities, to sharpen your job search and land your next role.
Debugging your CV for success
Before you dive into crafting your CV, channel your inner analyst. Scour job listings like you would source code, analysing the skills, certifications, and experience in demand. Whether it’s cybersecurity, cloud computing, or software development, identifying tech trends gives you the edge to tailor your CV. The tech world is vast. Taking time to map your career path means you’re not chasing jobs; you’re building a roadmap towards your dream job.
Clean up your CV
Hiring managers and recruiters scan CVs in seconds, and automated systems may filter applications before a human even sees them. Tailor your CV for each role, aligning it with the advertised position. Keep your CV short and concise - two pages maximum!
What to move to the trash can:
- Your home address: just your email and phone number are enough.
- Experience with outdated systems: focus on the latest cloud-based or current software solutions.
- Old roles: jobs from more than 15 years ago (unless relevant).
- Jargon and internal acronyms: use industry-standard terms that are widely understood.
- References available upon request: this is a given.
Highlight achievements, not responsibilities
In tech, demand outpaces supply, so your CV need to do more than list job titles. It must highlight the expertise that sets you apart. Recruiting managers aren't only scanning for experience, they want to see hands-on skills that make you invaluable. Whether you’re optimising cloud infrastructure, securing networks, or engineering AI-driven solutions, demonstrating technical proficiency is key. When listing roles, swap lengthy paragraphs for bullet points that showcase impact:
- Where did you improve system efficiencies?
- How did you optimise workflows or reduce costs?
- Which projects delivered measurable results?
- How did implementing cloud solutions like AWS or Azure reduce costs or processing time?
- What measurable impact did leading cybersecurity initiatives have on protecting data or preventing threats?
Instead of generic job tasks, use quantifiable results to show expertise. Figures or percentages give context and prove your impact. For example, mention the size of datasets you worked with, the money saved, or the number of users impacted by your work.
Troubleshoot your tech career
Take a moment to debug your skill set; what gaps need patching? Identify areas to upskill, whether mastering cloud platforms, new ERP systems, learning more about automation, refining programming languages, or diving into Gen-AI. As more companies adopt AI and machine learning, there is a need for people who develop and implement these solutions.
Showcase your skills
Spring cleaning your CV might mean updating your skills section. If you’ve upskilled recently, don’t overlook the new expertise you’ve gained. Rapid tech advancements mean you likely have newly acquired skills to add, which can give you an edge in the job market. The Future of Jobs Report 2025 brings together the perspectives of leading global employers. It is no coincidence that AI and big data are the fastest-growing skills. If you have them, ensure they are on your CV!
Be sure to include the most relevant skills for your field, such as:
- Programming Languages (e.g., Java, Python, C++)
- Artificial Intelligence/Gen-AI
- Big Data (Hadoop, Spark)
- Cloud (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
- Cybersecurity (Firewalls, Intrusion Detection Systems)
- Data Analytics (Power BI, R, Tableau)
- Machine Learning (TensorFlow, scikit-learn)
- App Development (iOS, Android)
- Agile Methodologies (Scrum, Kanban)
- DevOps (Continuous Integration, Docker)
- Project Management (PMP, Agile Project Management)
- Other skills relevant to the role
Tailoring this section ensures your CV isn't a document - it's a statement of expertise. It shows hiring managers how you can contribute to their business and navigate complex tech environments.
Highlighting certifications on your CV
Don’t forget to list your certifications or mention those you’re currently pursuing. Credentials from providers like Oracle, SAP, and Microsoft set you apart. Certifications validate your expertise, boost your career prospects, and lead to higher earnings. Employers seek certified professionals, recognising their specialist skills in cloud computing, ERP systems, and data management. Showing your commitment to continuous learning gives you the edge in hiring scenarios.
Stay consistent
Once updated, check that your CV aligns with your LinkedIn profile, job application documents, and portfolio. Employers do check, so keep dates, achievements, and job titles uniform across platforms.
Keep your job search strategic
Rather than sending the same CV to different employers, tailor applications to each individual job. One well-crafted application per day is more effective than twenty generic ones.
Congratulations, your CV is now spring-cleaned and ready for new opportunities!
When you're done, why not register it with NU Concept Solutions?