Managers and HR People Don't Carefully Read CVs

If you handwrite it, they probably won't read it at all. If you do not have a computer, go to your local library. Most will let you use their computers for a limited time and print off copies for a small fee. You must be aware that the HR people and managers have to read many applications and resumes. They will not read every word of your resume, so make every word count. If they read every other paragraph, then make sure that every paragraph pops and dazzles the manager. Most managers will only read the first few lines and then maybe skim a little of the rest before tossing your CV aside. This means you must have a strong opener and then the first few paragraphs should be short and to the point.

So let's say you are an experienced grocery supervisor and are applying for the same position in a new company. Your big opening line and following text could be.

I want this job because I have done it for the last 5 years and have become very good at it.

• I worked as a supervisor for Grumbles Groceries for 5 years
• My attendance record is the highest in the store
• I won worker of the month on 29 occasions

The sooner you send in your CV the better. There are jobs advertised that have not closed their application period but have been running for two or three weeks. In these cases, the managers have already started interviewing and have probably found someone they like. Any further interviews will just be a formality. You should still apply, even if the advertisement has been running a long time. There is a small chance that they have interviewed a bunch of people who were not good enough. Even if they have picked the person they want and are only doing further interviews as a formality, it is a good way to practice your interview techniques. There are lots of people who are hired simply because they interview well.