Skills Are Your Superpower - Optimising Your CV for Today’s Recruiters: Advice from Ageas's Grace Clark
As recruitment evolves, companies are moving towards skills-based hiring, placing greater importance on what you can do, rather than how long you’ve done it. Grace Clark, Internal Recruitment Resourcer at Ageas, believes this change opens the door for a more diverse range of candidates. The key? Make your skills shine.
Tailor Your CV to the Role
When applying for a job, your CV should reflect the actual tasks required and the skills needed to complete them. Focus on achievements and outcomes, and make sure you link these directly to the job description. Don’t just list duties, show how you’ve delivered results.
Make Your Skills Visible to ATS Tools
Most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to shortlist CVs. These systems search for keywords tied to the role’s skill requirements. If you don’t include the right terms, your CV might not even make it to a recruiter’s inbox, no matter how qualified you are.
Use AI - But Don’t Let It Speak for You
Tools like ChatGPT can help you structure your CV, but don’t copy and paste. Recruiters are good at spotting AI-generated applications. Instead, use AI as a starting point, then personalise your CV so that it genuinely reflects your experience and personality.
Do Deeper Company Research
A quick scan of the company’s website is no longer enough. Grace recommends looking at recent LinkedIn activity, press releases, and sector news. Understanding how a company is positioned within its industry, especially in the context of the department you're applying to, shows genuine engagement.
Before submitting your application, double-check the job description. Make sure your CV clearly reflects the required skills, triple check spelling and grammar, and tailor everything to the role you’re targeting.
Whether you're exploring your first role in insurance or planning your next move, success starts with thoughtful, well-tailored applications and a clear sense of values. Visit www.icanapply.uk for more career advice, job listings, and insights from industry professionals.