Demonstrating Leadership through Your CV

I'm one of the professional nursing resumes authors, our service offers you such advice. If you wish to set yourself a part of all the other applicants, you should consider demonstrating leadership through your CV (Curriculum Vitae). Most applicants submit a resume and maybe a cover letter and hope for the best. The problem with that method is the resume does not fully present your strengths and attributes that can help match up with requirements employers are seeking. A CV allows you to offer details that reflect your total performance at work and while in school. An added advantage to a three to four page CV over a one page resume – is the ability to show how your leadership can benefit their company.

First, keep it simple and easy to read. After looking at resumes all day, sorting through piles of information, it’s refreshing for an employer to see a crisp, sharp looking CV that is easy to read. Centre and bold your full name at the top of the page. Directly under add the title “Curriculum Vitae” also in bold. Then add your contact details to the left side of the page. This helps separate you from your information and places your name front and centre.

The elements are very important in setting you up as a leader. Before listing them, consider your strongest area, whether extensive work experience or excellent academic background, and list the most impressive element first.

When listing your academic record, consider using a bolder title than Education. “Academic Qualifications” stands out perfectly, especially in bold. Then in chronological order from the most recent, begin listing your qualifications.

If you have experience in the field that would impress that potential employer, then list this element before Academic Qualifications. Label “Work History” or “Work Experience” in bold; ordering each job with the most recent at the top. Choose to use either complete sentences or phrases, but keep the pattern consistent throughout the CV.

Here is where you can really shine a light on your leadership skills. In just a couple of sentences/phrases, let them know how you used leadership skills in your previous position. It doesn’t matter if you didn’t hold a management position, only that you did your best in the position you held. Be sure to use active and powerful verbs, but without sounding too over the top. Active words must also be believable - Accomplished, Optimised, Responsible for, Negotiated, etc. These are strong, leadership words that can really paint a picture for that employer.

If you have affiliations or other qualifications, list those elements next. Again, use every opportunity to show them your leadership. Also make sure you check your references before adding them to your CV. Let them know what position you’re applying for and stay alert should the employer calls. Just adding a few of the ideas to your CV will easily set you up as the next person to call for an interview.