Crafting a good CV is more than just making a list of jobs and education. It’s your personal business card. It shows who you are, what you can do, and why you’re the right person for a role.

Employers often receive many applications. Therefore, it is important that your CV quickly gives a clear picture of your experience and qualities.

With these 7 steps, you can create a professional CV that stands out and impresses employers.

1. Start with your personal details

Always start your CV with your most important details. Think about:

You can also add a link to your LinkedIn profile here. Do you have a professional profile? Then this can be a nice addition to your CV.

Some people choose to add a photograph. This is not mandatory, but it can make your CV more personal.

2. Write a short profile

Following your personal details, there will be a short introduction. We also call this a profile sketch or summary.

In a few sentences, tell me:

Keep this text short and punchy. Think of it as a brief pitch that immediately shows what you bring to the table.

3. Describe your work experience

Employers often look at your work experience first. Therefore, it is important that this section is clear and well-organized.

Record your work experience in reverse chronological order. This means you start with your most recent job.

Mention with each function:

Have you worked on any special projects or achieved great results? Be sure to mention them. That shows what you've truly contributed.

4. List your educational background clearly

Link your experience to the role you are applying for. Choose a few examples from your CV that fit well. In this section, describe your education and qualifications.

Please state herein:

You can also add your field of study or mention relevant subjects. Have you achieved exceptionally good results? Then you can mention that here too.

5. Tell what motivates you

Besides your experience and training, your skills are important.

Think, for example, of:

Adapt this list to the vacancy you are applying for. Look closely at which skills are important for the role and ensure they are clearly reflected.

6. References

References are not always necessary on your CV. You can also simply state: “References available on request.”

Do you want to provide someone as a reference? Always ask for permission first. This way, that person knows they might be contacted by an employer.

7. Add extra information (optional)

Do you want to make your CV even stronger? Then you can add extra sections.

Think, for example, of:

This information could be the deciding factor between your CV and those of other candidates.

Finally: always tailor your CV to the job vacancy

A good CV is never standard. Always adapt it to the role you are applying for.

Focus on the experience and skills relevant to the job. In addition, ensure your CV is clear and concise, with a clear structure and consistent formatting.

This is how you make it easy for employers to quickly see why you are the right candidate.

A good cover letter can make the difference between getting invited for an interview or not. It is your chance to show who you are, why you are excited about the job and what you can add to a company.

Yet many people find it difficult to write a cover letter. What exactly should it contain? And how do you make sure your letter stands out among all the other job applications?

With these 7 components, you will always be right.

1. Start with a good salutation

Start your cover letter with a neat and personal salutation. Do you know who will read the letter? Then always use that person's name.

For example:
Dear Mr Janssen or Dear Ms De Vries.

Don't know the name? Then you can choose Dear Sir/Madam or the name of the department.

2. Briefly introduce yourself

In the first paragraph, tell who you are and what position you are applying for. You can also briefly mention where you found the vacancy.

Keep this piece short and clear. The main aim is to make it immediately clear why you are writing.

3. Why do you want this feature?

Explain what appeals to you about the job and the company. Show that you have immersed yourself in the organisation.

Maybe the work atmosphere appeals to you, the projects the company is working on or the company's vision. Naming this shows you are genuinely interested.

4. Show what you can contribute

Link your experience to the job you are applying for. Choose a few examples from your CV that match well with the vacancy.

Tell for example:

This is how you make it clear what you bring.

5. Tell what motivates you

Besides your experience, it is also important to show what drives you. Why does this work appeal to you? What do you like about this sector?

Employers find it important to see that you are motivated and eager to contribute to the company.

6. Close strongly

Round off your cover letter with a brief summary of your enthusiasm for the position. Thank the reader for their time and let them know that you would be happy to explain your motivation further in a personal interview.

A positive and enthusiastic conclusion leaves a good impression.

7. Don't forget your signature

Close your letter neatly with, for example:

Sincerely,
Your name

Then add your contact details if necessary.

Finally, keep your letter clear and personal

A strong cover letter is clear, concise and personal. Avoid long sentences and don't simply repeat your CV.

Above all, show who you are and why you are a good fit for the job. With concrete examples and an enthusiastic tone, you will make the most impression.