In today’s competitive job market, your CV is often the first impression you make on potential employers. It’s your opportunity to showcase your skills, experience, and suitability for the role—all within a concise and well-structured document. Whether you’re applying for roles in commercial builds or the COMAH (Control of Major Accident Hazards) industries, a standout CV can be the difference between landing an interview or being overlooked. Here are five steps to craft a CV that grabs attention and sets you apart.
Step 1: Tailor Your CV to the Job
One of the most common mistakes candidates make is sending out generic CVs. To truly stand out, you need to tailor your CV to each specific role you apply for. Start by carefully reading the job description and noting the key skills and qualifications the employer is seeking. Highlight these in your CV—not just in your skills section, but also within your work experience and personal statement.
For example, if you’re applying for a mechanical engineering role in the commercial build sector, emphasise your experience with project management, technical drawings, or the use of industry-specific software like AutoCAD. If it’s a COMAH-related position, underline your expertise in safety compliance, risk assessments, or handling hazardous materials.
Tip: Use the same terminology as the job advert. Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter CVs, so matching keywords can increase your chances of being shortlisted.
Step 2: Create a Strong Personal Statement
Your personal statement is a short, impactful paragraph at the top of your CV that summarises who you are, your professional goals, and what you bring to the table. This is your elevator pitch, so make it count.
For instance, a strong personal statement might read:
“A highly skilled mechanical engineer with 10 years of experience in commercial build projects, specialising in sustainable design and project management. Proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget, with a commitment to health and safety compliance. Currently seeking opportunities to contribute to innovative projects within the UK’s top-tier industries.”
This immediately communicates your value and aligns your goals with the role.
Step 3: Highlight Key Achievements
Recruiters and hiring managers want to see results. Use bullet points to list your achievements in previous roles, quantifying them wherever possible. Numbers and specifics make your contributions tangible and impactful.
For example:
- Managed a team of 15 technicians to complete a £2.5M commercial build project three months ahead of schedule.
- Conducted safety audits in a COMAH facility, reducing incident rates by 25% over 12 months.
- Implemented a new maintenance schedule, cutting equipment downtime by 30%.
Tip: Achievements should align with the priorities of the role you’re applying for.
Step 4: Keep It Clear and Professional
Your CV should be easy to read and professionally formatted. Use clear headings, consistent fonts, and enough white space to avoid overwhelming the reader. A well-structured CV typically includes the following sections:
- Contact Information: Include your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile.
- Personal Statement: A concise summary of your career goals and expertise.
- Work Experience: Detailed descriptions of relevant roles, focusing on achievements and responsibilities.
- Education and Qualifications: List your degrees, certifications, and any relevant training.
- Skills: A bullet-pointed list of key skills tailored to the job.
Avoid unnecessary graphics or excessive colours unless you’re applying for a design-related role.
Step 5: Proofread and Seek Feedback
Typos and grammatical errors can leave a poor impression. Before submitting your CV, proofread it multiple times. Better yet, ask a trusted colleague or professional to review it for you. They might spot areas for improvement that you’ve overlooked.
At Mechanical Partners, we work closely with candidates to refine their CVs and maximise their chances of success. Our team has a deep understanding of the industries we serve, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the job search process.
How Mechanical Partners Can Help
Crafting the perfect CV is just the beginning. At Mechanical Partners, we specialise in connecting skilled professionals with leading employers in the commercial build and COMAH sectors. Our recruitment experts offer personalised advice to help you stand out and secure the roles you’re aiming for.
Ready to take the next step in your career? Contact us today to learn how we can support you in achieving your professional goals.
A standout CV doesn’t just open doors—it sets the tone for your entire job search journey. By tailoring your CV, showcasing achievements, and presenting yourself professionally, you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream role. Let Mechanical Partners be your partner in success.
