Do employers still care about old-school CVs?
Wondering whether to update my standard Word doc templated CV or if there's a more fun an exciting way to show off some of my creative work? FYI I'm a digital journalist but interested in what other creative industries do
Replies17
- @Hadrien Chatelet I've been waiting for someone to say no as I really thought more people would have said this so really interesting to hear your take. Does an Instagram page work if you don't have a website yet?
- If you are going through a recruiter, a CV may be important to indicate experience, skills, achievements and so on before they decide to look at your portfolio or work. Some recruiters prefer to leave the portfolio assessment to the hiring manager and will use the CV as the deciding point between putting you forward or not.If you are meeting the hiring manager directly, I'd feel that, unless they are really stranded for time, they'll prefer to look at your work instead of the CV.
- Hi Nabihah, I would like to answer NO, unless the company you are applying for is really traditional, if you are looking to get your dream job i an creative / innovating agency you have to show that you have able to stand-out and showcase your skills. Stunning visual portfolio, Website, Videos, any think that demontrate your skills and put your work in the best light. Recruiters and agancy recieve 100 of CV you want to be short an impactfull. I hope that help.
- Agree with all the other mentors' wonderful feedback and advice. Yes, yes, yes (and as much as you can, keep it updated so that it's not a chore when you have to, either through a quick change in employment or if someone comes calling to gauge interest.)
- @Jay Hepburn really helpful Jay, thank you!
- Hi Nabihah, I think it depends on the type of role you're applying for. I work for a brand design consultancy and I review many CVs from Creatives and Account Managers. Designers often build in their CVs into their portfolios. The ones which resonate and cut through the 'noise' in terms of standout are the ones which have been considered from a design perspective; a good layout, use of language, colour and typography style. All can be used in an engaging way and provides an insight to their creativity. When reviewing account manager CVs I still prefer to see old style CVs.Ultimately, what is most important, is the content; your experience, qualification and skill set. No point in having the style without substance :)
- @Adam Boita thanks Adam. What are some good ways people link to their work away from the CV? Would this be to a wesbite, YouTube showreel...
- @Sam Bompas thanks for that insight. Interesting to see how valued a traditional CV is even in 2021!
- Yes defo. I see CVs all the time. Even in todays digital world a well written CV that is succinct and sells you well will always work. Given a lot of the time the CVs come as pdfs or word docs I like it when people embed links so I can see videos/creative/campaigns they have worked on that bring the CV to life. I tend to have a killer para at the top that tells me who you are, then the rest of your experience split into Key Responsibilities and Key Achievments you are most proud of with the data and stats to back them up.
- Hi Nabihar, 'hell yes' is the answer. Lots of good advice hear, I go along with everything that @cath leach and @Sam Bompas have written here: factual, well structured CV, be passionate and offer a more personal view of yourself in a cover letter – but keep it targeted, show you have understood what the prospective employer is looking for and know their business. And a great portfolio, don't empty the cupboard, be selective. Always remember the employer has limited time and attention.But the indirect value of a CV is that it helps you focus on what your strengths are, and what you are looking for, and gives you a great measuring tool for checking off what the employer is looking for before you apply.
- I would say 'absolutely!' to this.A good CV can provide a lot of insight into who the candidates are and how much (or little) experience they have - which a potential employer will view alongside any creative work you submit. It's a document that they are likely to refer back to a number of times during an interview or selection process and will be compared to others. Personally I would prefer a CV to be more of a factual account of someone's experience and keep the creative elements separately.
- Regular CVs (and covering letters) are useful as an employer as they allow some measure of standardisation between applicants. This is crucial in terms of being able to be as fair as possible in evaluating the best person for the role. For someone like yourself, who produces a creative work, we'd also been keen to study up samples or a portfolio as this couldn't necessarily be communicated effectively thorugh a CV.The CV itself should be information rather than design led. The prospective employer may be working through hundreds of applicants for the role and the ability to effectively communicate your suitability for the role will be valued.Over the years we've recieved all sorts of 'creative' applications. Some are hugely valued (CV alongside fresh pizza at lunch), others less so (mouldy cup-cakes, an old trainer). But the interviews tend to be offered to candidates with a tight content-led CV, considered and personalised covering letter and strong portfolio.Best of luck.
- @Morphe Digital Design that's really helpful, thank you!
- @Atanas Neychev interesting to see some of the myths and where your panel disagreed with the audience. Thanks!
- @Joshua Hart thanks Joshua!
- In December we had an event called The Future of CV. We are working on a Guide for CV Drafting based on the discussion with the experts.slavconf.com/futureofcvYou need a CV, but the answer is not that simple. You can check these results about CV myths as well: https://slavconf.com/the-future-of-cv-myths/
- I definitely think so, if you are available to produce a creative resume with includes your CV then it’s worthwhile. Including it as part of a printable portfolio is also a great way from potential brands and clients to see your experience and education.
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