A lot has been written on writing and submitting resumes’, with a great array of suggestions and tips on how to get noticed. Well, this is another such article because the messages don’t always seem to be getting through.

So, here goes – 5 tips to improve your CV and chances of getting an interview:

1. The main idea of submitting your CV for a job application is to get an interview. It is not to get the job itself…yet. Most people still don’t understand this important difference and as such try to oversell themselves and put in too much detail – a good recruiter will only spend a few seconds on your CV, so it is critical to hit the highlights and have a great elevator pitch as the first part of your CV, but keep it brief. Once you have done this, you’re a strong chance to at least reach the first or second applicant cull, which is the way recruiters filter too many applications for positions.

2. Brevity – Your resume should be no more than 3-4 pages in length, in a double space 10-12 pitch font. Any longer is too much detail, and ideally shorter is better. Hit the high points for each past job, especially achievements – we don’t want to know what your job entailed, but what you achieved to make a difference. I can’t emphasis this difference enough. And don’t go back further than 12-15 years, as it’s not relevant to your next position no matter what you did and how well. Lastly, make sure its grammar and spell checked.

3. Versions – You should have more than one version of your resume. Why? Because if you have applied for different positions then the emphasis you need to bring out in your resume will be different between those jobs. For example, applying for a Sales & Marketing Manager position should have a different resume than applying for a National Sales Manager position. The other element of this is applying for the same position but in different industries. Your work history should identify different achievements that may be industry specific and which are more relevant for each position. Tailor each resume for the job you are applying for. If you have had a varied career and are looking at multiple job opportunities, you may have many versions of your resume.

4. Media – In today’s job market, what will make you stand out? Recruiters find that most resumes submitted are in plain English or other language text only. Boring! Include at least a professional picture (a clean chest up head shot, smartly dressed, and smile), and if you have a video, YouTube clip or other social media link of you speaking or working, this is an excellent way to stand apart from the crowd. Don’t be shy.

5. Cover letter – this is mandatory, and the absence of one is the quickest way to be excluded from any consideration for interview. A good cover letter should be integrated as Page 1 of your resume, NOT separate, and should specifically address why you’re a great candidate for the position. Again, keep it brief and to the point, maximum of one page, and an electronic signature shows a nice personal touch.

If you can follow these steps, and you’re applying for position that matches your passion and experience, then you’re on your way to interview and in the mix to be successful.

Good luck.