Are CV Builders still worth it?
Everyone knows how painstaking it can be to create a CV from scratch but with constantly evolving technologies, that difficult task is fast becoming a thing of the past. However, what are the advantages of using an online CV Builder to compose your job application and are they still the way to go to get an efficient, outstanding CV?
In the new technology-dominant era, jobseekers and human resource managers alike find themselves wondering whether CVs are really a continued requirement or if we could just scrap them altogether and digitise the whole process through online profiles? Well, the simple answer is yes, they are necessary and despite the ease with which we can create an online profile these days, it is still highly important to have an updated, optimised CV ready for your next job interview!
What makes a CV different from an online profile?
It is a common misconception that these two methods of applying for jobs have the same function and can be used interchangeably. This is not true and could damage your chances if you decide to simply stick to an online profile for all your job applications!
The reason for this is that an online profile such as those created on LinkedIn etc. includes a general overview of your professional and academic career with sections dedicated to all of your many skills and experience gathered throughout your professional life however it is not tailored to a specific industry, position or company unless you make it so. But adapting the profile means you limit yourself and may produce an undesired effect by demonstrating only one side of your candidacy in your online profile.
A CV, on the other hand, can be tailored and modified to fit each role, company or sector as necessary within reason. That is to say, each applicant can use the keywords and relevant abilities and qualifications they have to personalise their CV to ensure it is well-suited to the position on offer.
Ways to make a CV
Absolutely everyone needs a CV at some point in their life, either to apply for a first job or to move careers and CVs differ greatly from one industry to the next but learning how to make a CV is fundamental for anyone entering the working world or going on to further education.
There are hundreds, if not thousands, of websites and even mobile and tablet applications that claim to be able to help you create a great CV quickly and easily, not to mention social media sites such as LinkedIn etc. that practically build a profile for you.
Nowadays, the job search is largely digitised and most people find work through online platforms and job vacancy websites, so it’s more or less given that your CV needs to be created digitally. The following are some of the options available to jobseekers making a CV:
- You can easily add your details and work experience to a Word document which gives you complete freedom over the structure, content and formatting to create a CV in Word just the way you want;
- If you have any knowledge of other design programs you can also use software such as Adobe Illustrator etc. to compile a more artistic CV;
- Or you can fill in a LinkedIn profile online by simply introducing the relevant information in the sections that are provided in order to apply for jobs directly online.
But are these the best ways? Is LinkedIn enough to get you the job of your dreams? And if you already have these tools available at your disposition, is it really worth using an online CV creator?
Advantages of using a CV Builder
Online CV makers offer jobseekers the ability to build a CV using various tools to optimise their application for their needs. This means there are several positive aspects which make using a CV builder worth it:
Save time!
Save time on formatting a CV from scratch, creating an order for the sections, coming up with ideas for the content, researching how to make a good CV for your sector or experience or even lack thereof, etc.
Ensure to make your CV ATS-safe
Applicant Tracking Software is fast becoming a new favourite tool for Human Resource departments, especially in big multinationals. One way to make sure your CV successfully passes an ATS test is to use an online CV template, expertly prepared by HR professionals who know the tricks of the hiring trade.
Quick edits and updates
Being able to make swift changes to your CV easily using an online tool allows you to adapt your job application for each role without needing to rehaul your entire profile and change each section. Not to mention, as you progress in your career, you’ll need to add new experiences, qualifications and skills. To be able to do so at the click of a mouse simplifies the whole application process and takes away the hassle that comes with job hunting.
Professional help
Using an online CV builder also gives you the added benefits of expert advice from professionals with tips and practical examples to help you complete each section of your CV.
In order to advance your career and get the job of your dreams, it is entirely necessary to have not only an updated online profile but also to have a fully formatted, well-designed, complete and polished CV that you can use either digitally or physically to apply for work and what better and easier way that to use an online CV creator that helpfully guides you through the whole process?!
