Chapter 07 — Work & Career

How do I write a CV that gets interviews?

Lead each bullet with an action verb and finish with a measurable outcome, keep it to two pages, and mirror the exact keywords from the job posting so applicant tracking systems rank you. Skip photos, ages, and objective statements.

Follow-up questions

How long should a CV be?

One page for under five years' experience, two for most others. Academic CVs are the exception and can run far longer.

What is an ATS and how do I beat it?

Applicant tracking systems parse and rank CVs by keyword match. Use a simple single-column layout, standard headings, and the job ad's own terminology.

Should I write a cover letter?

When the posting allows one, yes — a short three-paragraph letter naming the company specifically still measurably improves callback rates.

How do I explain an employment gap?

One neutral line stating what you did — caring, study, health, travel — and then move on. Unexplained gaps invite worse assumptions than explained ones.

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