CV Destruction

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s what you need to know to improve your CV for Spring Week applications:

1. Content is King:

   • Focus on achievements rather than responsibilities. Highlight measurable results and specific contributions in your experiences. For example, instead of saying "Assisted in financial analysis," say "Conducted financial analysis leading to a 10% cost reduction in project budgeting."

2. Formatting:

   • Ensure your CV is clean and professional. Avoid excessive white space, and use consistent formatting. Fonts like Helvetica or Garamond are preferred over Times New Roman. Keep the layout simple and aligned.

3. Relevance:

   • Prioritize sections that matter most. For instance, internships, relevant coursework, and leadership roles should take precedence over hobbies or unrelated jobs. If space is tight, remove non-relevant experiences or interests.

4. Skills:

   • Demonstrate skills through your experiences rather than listing them in a separate section. For example, instead of writing "Skilled in financial modeling," show how you applied financial modeling in a project or internship.

5. Avoid Fluff:

   • Remove vague or generic terms like "Problem-solving" or "Time management" unless they are backed by specific examples. Employers want to see tangible evidence of your abilities.

6. Interests:

   • Include unique and memorable interests that can spark a conversation during interviews. Avoid generic or overused ones like "Traveling" or "Reading." If you have awards or achievements in a hobby, mention them.

7. Achievements Over Tasks:

   • Focus on what you achieved rather than what you were responsible for. For example, instead of "Part of a fundraising team," say "Raised $50,000 for a non-profit organization through targeted campaigns."

8. Tailor for Spring Weeks:

   • Highlight any finance-related experiences, coursework, or extracurricular activities. If you lack direct finance experience, emphasize transferable skills like analytical thinking, teamwork, or leadership.

9. No Pictures or Over-Styling:

   • Keep the CV professional and avoid adding photos or overly designed elements. A simple, clean layout is more effective.

10. Metrics and Numbers:

    • Use numbers to quantify your impact wherever possible. For example, "Increased social media engagement by 30%" or "Managed a budget of £10,000 for a student organization."

By implementing these changes, your CV will stand out and align with what recruiters look for in Spring Week candidates. Good luck!

Sources: I'll help you with your CV (Top IB VP), https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/oh-how-i-judge-your-cv?customgpt=1, CV Review - please rip my CV apart, University Career Fairs: How Not To Fuck Up