Unlock Your Dream Job: The Ultimate CV Guide for Veterans
Created on 23 Jan 2025
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Updated on 30 Jan 2025
Let’s face it – writing a CV can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re a veteran or military spouse. But don’t stress – SaluteMyJob, the military recruitment experts, are here to make sure you stand out from the crowd! Your CV only has 30 seconds to impress a hiring manager, so how do you make sure yours is the one they remember?
The answer is simple – SaluteMyJob has created a FREE CV template designed to help you showcase your skills and land your dream job!
—> [DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE CV TEMPLATE NOW]
Before You Start: 7 Things You MUST Know to Nail Your CV
1. You’ve Got 30 Seconds. Make Every Second Count!
Employers spend just 30 seconds reviewing your CV – don’t waste them! Make sure your key information is right at the top and your CV is easy to read. Keep it concise – 2-4 pages max!
2. Use Our FREE Template to Get It Right the First Time
No perfect format? No problem. Our template is a killer starting point, guiding you every step of the way. Start here and tweak it for each job you apply for!
3. Typos Are a Dealbreaker – Check Everything!
One typo could cost you the job! Double-check your spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Stick to simple fonts – no need to overcomplicate things.
4. No Typos Allowed
One mistake can ruin your chances. Proofread carefully and make sure your CV is free of spelling errors. Stick to simple fonts – clarity is key! Oh and make sure your spellcheck is set to UK English to avoid embarrassing mistakes.
5. Create One Master CV – Then Tailor It for Each Role
Don’t start from scratch every time! Create a master version, then customise it for each job. Employers want to see how you fit their role, so tweak your CV accordingly.
6. Avoid Military Jargon – Speak the Employer’s Language
Military speak can confuse employers. Keep it civilian-friendly to make your skills shine.
7. ALWAYS Include a Covering Letter
Your CV isn’t enough – make sure you always submit it with a covering letter. It’s your chance to show your personality and passion!
How to Structure Your CV for Maximum Impact
There’s no one-size-fits-all formula, but here’s a structure that’s proven to impress:
- Contact Details
Keep it simple: name, email, phone, and location. Leave out personal details like your date of birth or marital status.
- Personal Profile
Capture attention quickly with a 6-line summary of who you are, what you bring to the table, and what your career goals are. Keep it specific to the role you’re applying for.
- Key Skills
List the top skills you’ve gained from both military experience and civilian work. Keep it relevant to the role and highlight your transferable skills.
- Work History
List the past 10 years of your career (in reverse order). Focus on what you’ve achieved in each role, using strong action verbs like “led,” “developed,” and “achieved.”
- Education & Training
Include relevant qualifications and any ongoing training to show that you’re always improving. Don’t date your education – employers don’t need to know when you graduated.
- Hobbies & Interests
Optional, but it can give employers a glimpse into your personality. Include hobbies that add value to your role or demonstrate skills like leadership or teamwork.
- References
“Available on request” is the standard format. If you have a particularly glowing reference, you can attach it as a separate document.
Polish Your CV to Perfection
Once you’ve written your CV, it’s time for the finishing touches:
- Proofread: Always get someone else to read your CV to catch any mistakes you may have missed – a CV with mistakes is a red flag to employers.
- Layout: Double-check that your CV flows well and is easy to navigate. Use bullet points and headings to break up text - A clear layout makes it easier for employers to scan your CV quickly.
- Make it Stand Out: Don’t settle for a generic CV – customise it for each application to align with the job description and company culture. Highlight the unique skills and experiences that set you apart.
Ready to Get Started? Download Your FREE CV Template Now!
You’ve got the tips, now get the tools to make your CV stand out! Download our FREE CV template from SaluteMyJob and start crafting the CV that will land you your next career opportunity.
—> [DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE CV TEMPLATE NOW]
For additional tips and resources on CV writing and career guidance, speak to SaluteMyJob. Their expert team is here to help you succeed in landing your dream job.