How to properly write a CV in order to get the job you want

CEO and CTO of the Bimp fintech service Dmytro Obukhov advises on how to properly write a CV and prepare for an interview in order to get a desired job.

By what criteria does the employer select a candidate:

It all depends on the position we select a candidate for: sales manager, support specialist, developer, analyst, etc. As a rule, the recruiter deals with the primary selection based on job requirements. The main thing here is to prescribe these criteria in as much detail as possible.

Business skills: understanding of business processes and the ability to develop software solutions that meet business requirements.

Analytical skills: ability to analyze and assess user needs and ensure software functions correctly.

Communication skills: ability to communicate effectively with users and develop documentation for technical and non-technical audiences.

Sometimes, as an example, I add several CVs to make it easier for the recruiter to analyze the database.

Generally speaking, I first pay attention to the candidate’s compliance with the requirements of the position, their hard skills. Then I will learn how the process of performance of duties in other companies took place, from the starting point of the process to the quality of performance analysis. I find out how the candidate acts in a situation when something does not go according to plan, whether they take responsibility, whether they look for the culprit, or draw conclusions.

How to prepare for the interview so that everything goes well:

First of all, you need to get to know the product and the company. If I see that the candidate does not understand which company and which product they will be working with, I always end the interview. For me, as an employer, the factor of complete interest is important. If a person did not take the time to analyze the vacancy and figure out what they will have to work with, it means that this position is not really what they need.

Therefore, before the interview, I advise you to study the information about the product and its value well. Ideally, you should dig as deep as possible. If you are applying for the position of sales manager, it is advisable to find out who the company’s competitors are, what their disadvantages and advantages are.

If you are trying to become a software developer, then register, do a superficial technical study of the product, the frequency of releases, etc. Going to a meeting unprepared is disrespectful to a potential employer and even more disrespectful to yourself and your professionalism.

Also, I always advise you to think about your strengths and weaknesses. The answer: “my weak side is that I’m too good” can be left for other conversations, in business communication such pirouettes are perceived as frivolity. It is important to be open, honest and properly assess your potential.

What to pay attention to when preparing a CV in the first place:

1. Consider that the CV structure shows how important the job search is to you. If you just downloaded the template, it is always obvious you did not invest too much in the preparation of the presentation of your professional personality.

2. What you emphasize on your CV demonstrates what is important to you. Sometimes, if these qualities don’t align with the company’s values, you may miss out on key CV skills that would get you an interview. Therefore, carefully analyze what exactly the employer expects from the candidates and ideally adapt the CV to the company.

3. The CV should be relevant and consistent from the point of view of chronology, not dry on details, truthful, and also contain a neat photo in a business style. The CV should not have gaps, even if you once worked as an astronaut, be sure to indicate this.

4. Do not make the CV too long – the optimal size for a CV is 2 pages maximum. Include in your CV only basic information that may be of interest to the employer.

Additional tips for the candidate:

Learn more about the company and its culture. Ask questions about the company’s values, mission, and way of working. This will help you understand whether this company is right for you or whether you really want to be part of its team.

Prepare for the interview. Research the technical aspects of the job that you may encounter in your new role. Be prepared to answer questions about your skills and experience.

Show your interest. During the interview, show your interest in the job and the company’s product. Emphasize your positive traits, express your thoughts and ideas.

Be ready for the test task. Many companies use test tasks to assess a candidate’s skills. Be prepared for such a task and allow yourself enough time to complete it.

Pay attention to communication and interaction. Don’t forget that teamwork is an important aspect of the job. Communicate clearly and openly, maintain a positive tone, and show your willingness to cooperate with other team members.

Be open to challenges and changes. Understand that working in IT is dynamic and rapidly changing. Be ready to learn new technologies, methods and approaches.