What a Recruiter Actually Likes to See in Your CV
Your CV doesn’t need to be fancy. It should be easy for a recruiter to understand who you are, what you’ve done and why they should call you.
I can tell you now, recruiters don’t have ten minutes to decipher every CV, so make the important stuff pop.
A clear recent photo with a background thats not to busy:
Professional and friendly. You don’t need a modelling shoot, sunglasses or a sunset behind you. Face on works the best.
Your basics — immediately
Nationality, location, availability, DOB, smoker/non smoker, if you vape, you are considered a smoker, also a Whatsapp number is used more widely. Your visas, certificates and qualifications will follow.
New to the industry:
Your most recent land based position first, then as you move forward with day work, this will be your most recent and be sure to add: Yacht name, size, private/charter, position and dates. Then a few useful lines about what you actually did onboard.
Tell us what makes you right for the Industry:
Tender driving? Watersports? Carpentry? Electrical background? Diving? Wine knowledge? Floristry? Massage? Michelin kitchens? Put it in. Sometimes the thing that gets you the interview isn’t your job title.
Keep it relevant:
You don’t need half a page explaining every job you’ve had since you were 16. Older or shoreside experience can be condensed unless it’s relevant to the position you’re applying for.
References matter:
Good references from people who actually worked with you are gold. Include them where appropriate — and please make sure the person knows you’re using them!
And please… check your CV before sending it.
Dates that don’t add up, spelling mistakes, the wrong phone number, an expired certificate or saying you’re in Antibes when you’re actually in Australia isn’t a great start. 😂
The bit people forget
Your CV gets you noticed. Your attitude gets you placed.
Be honest about your experience. Be realistic about the role you’re ready for. And don’t try to make yourself sound like a Chief Officer when you’ve done one season as a deckhand.
A good recruiter isn’t looking for the fanciest CV. If you need help with your CV reach out to: https://yachtiescvs.com/
We’re looking for the person we feel confident putting in front of our client.
