5th December 2024
CV Writing Tips
I see hundreds of CV’s throughout my working week & some stand out, and some have the same effect for the wrong reasons. When you are seeking a sales job it’s important to have some key points in, it’s your opportunity to present yourself as the best person for the job – here are my tips on how you can improve your CV.
Top Tips for Writing a Sales CV That Will Help You Stand Out from the Crowd
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Tailor Your CV to the Job
While it might seem tempting to use one generic CV for all applications, tailoring your CV for each role you apply for is essential. Research the company and the specific sales position to highlight relevant skills and experiences. For example, if the job focuses on B2B sales, emphasize your experience in building client relationships, negotiating contracts, and managing key accounts. If it’s a retail sales position, highlight your customer service skills and ability to hit sales targets.
As a recruiter contacting a candidate that has applied for a role with you and they say ‘sorry remind me which job this is as I’ve just applied for everything’ makes my heart sink a little. Take note of the job ad & make it personal.
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Focus on Achievements, Not Just Responsibilities
Sales leaders are looking for candidates who can deliver results. Instead of listing job responsibilities, focus on tangible achievements. Quantify your successes by including specific numbers that demonstrate your ability to meet or exceed targets. For example:
- Increased sales by 30% in the first quarter of 2023.
- Generated £500K in new business within six months.
- Achieved top sales representative ranking for three consecutive years.
Including specific figures not only highlights your skills but also shows that you're results-driven, which is crucial in sales. Sales is a role where you are completely visible in terms of your success.
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Highlight Key Skills
In the sales industry, certain skills are essential for success. Be sure to highlight these in your CV, particularly those that are relevant to the role you're applying for. Some key sales skills to consider including are:
- Prospecting and lead generation
- Negotiation and closing techniques
- Relationship building and account management
- Market research and competitor analysis
- CRM software proficiency (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot)
- Communication and presentation skills
- Time management and multitasking
Make sure your skills align with the job description and include any certifications or training you’ve completed that further demonstrate your expertise.
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Use Action Verbs and Power Words
A sales CV should be dynamic and energetic, just like the role itself. Use strong action verbs and power words that showcase your proactive attitude and results-oriented mindset. Words like "achieved," "generated," "exceeded," "closed," "led," and "improved" will make your CV sound more impactful. For example, instead of saying "Responsible for generating leads," say "Generated 200+ new leads each quarter."
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Showcase Your Soft Skills
While technical sales skills are important, soft skills are equally essential in sales. Employers are looking for candidates who can not only sell but also build relationships and manage client expectations. Don’t forget to include soft skills such as:
- Empathy and emotional intelligence
- Active listening
- Problem-solving
- Adaptability and resilience
- Teamwork and collaboration
Including these will demonstrate that you're a well-rounded professional who can navigate the human side of sales, which is crucial for long-term success.
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Keep It Clean and Easy to Read
Recruiters and hiring managers often sift through dozens (or even hundreds) of CVs, so it's important to make yours easy to read. Use a clean, professional layout with plenty of white space and a consistent font. Organize your CV into clear sections (e.g., contact information, professional summary, experience, education, and skills). Avoid long paragraphs; instead, use bullet points to break up information and make it more digestible.
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Include a Strong Personal Statement
A personal statement or career summary at the beginning of your CV is a great way to introduce yourself and grab the recruiter’s attention. This is your chance to briefly highlight your most important achievements, your professional goals, and what sets you apart as a sales professional. Make sure it’s concise, focused, and tailored to the specific sales role you're applying for.
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Demonstrate Your Passion for Sales
Sales is a profession that demands enthusiasm, drive, and a passion for success. Make sure this comes across in your CV. Whether it’s through your achievements, the language you use, or the additional sales-related activities you mention (e.g., sales competitions, mentorship, continuous learning), show that you're someone who thrives in a competitive, high-energy environment.
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Don’t Forget About Keywords
Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter CVs before they ever reach a recruiter. To ensure your CV makes it through, include relevant keywords from the job description, especially if the role requires specific technical skills or experience. For example, if the job description mentions "cold calling," "lead conversion," or "account management," make sure these terms are reflected in your CV, as long as they genuinely apply to your experience.
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Proofread and Edit
Finally, always proofread your CV before submitting it. Sales is a detail-oriented profession, and a CV with spelling mistakes or grammatical errors could suggest a lack of attention to detail. Consider having a friend or colleague review your CV for feedback as well. A second pair of eyes can often catch mistakes you may have missed. If there are spelling mistakes it always says to me that you don’t have great attention to detail.
Conclusion
A well-crafted sales CV is your ticket to standing out in a crowded job market. By focusing on your achievements, showcasing the skills and qualities that make you a great salesperson, and tailoring your CV to each specific role, you'll increase your chances of landing that next great opportunity. At Ethica Recruit, we’re always here to help you craft the perfect CV and take your career to the next level.
Ready to take the next step in your sales journey? Contact us today to explore the best opportunities in the market!
About Us
At Ethica Recruit we specialise in connecting top sales talent with leading companies across the manufacturing sector. Whether you're an experienced sales professional or just starting your career, our team of expert recruiters is here to help you navigate your career journey. Let us help you find the perfect role!
