As a freelance technology professional in Eastern Europe, having a standout CV is crucial for landing high-paying gigs and beating the competition. While some may argue that CVs are a thing of the past, the reality is that a well-crafted CV remains a powerful tool in showcasing your skills, experience, and value to potential clients. 

Not convinced? Check out these hard-hitting stats: 

- 75% of CVs are rejected before they reach a hiring manager due to formatting issues, lack of keywords, or poor content. 

- Around 98% of Fortune 500 companies use Applicant Tracking Systems to screen CVs. Including relevant keywords can significantly increase the chances of passing the ATS.

- Customising a CV for a specific job increases the chances of landing an interview by 50%. 

- CVs with a clear, professional format are 60% more likely to be read thoroughly than those with cluttered, unorganised layouts.

- Including measurable achievements on a CV (e.g., “Increased sales by 20%”) can make candidates 40% more likely to be considered for the position.

Why a CV matters for freelancers.

1. First impressions count: Your CV is often the first point of contact between you and a potential client. It's your chance to make a strong first impression by clearly communicating your expertise and professional background.
2. Credibility and professionalism: A well-organised CV demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail. It shows that you take your work seriously and are capable of presenting information in a clear and structured manner.
3. Showcase Your Unique Value: Unlike a LinkedIn profile or a brief project description, a CV allows you to go in-depth about your skills, experience, and accomplishments. You can tailor it to highlight the specific value you bring to a project, making you stand out in a crowded market.

Practical tips for creating a good Eastern European CV.

What to include:

1.   Personal information 

•  It's common for Eastern European CVs to include personal information such as date of birth, nationality, marital status, and sometimes even a photograph. Also provide contact information such as email address and phone number.  

2.   Start with a strong header

•  Include your full name, professional title, and contact information.

•  Add links to your LinkedIn profile, portfolio, or personal website

3.   Craft a compelling summary

•  Write a summary (2-3 sentences) that highlights your key skills and experience.

•  Focus on what makes you unique and how you can add value to potential clients.

4.   Highlight relevant experience

•  List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent.

•  For each position, include the company name, your role, and the dates of employment.

•  Use bullet points to describe your key responsibilities and achievements. Be specific and quantify your accomplishments where possible.

5.   Showcase your skills

•  Create a section dedicated to your technical and soft skills.

•  List relevant programming languages, tools, frameworks, and methodologies.

•  Include soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.

6.   Include certifications and education

•  List any relevant certifications and courses you have completed.

•  Include your educational background, starting with the most recent degree.

7.   Add a projects section

•  Highlight specific projects that demonstrate your expertise and versatility.

•  Provide brief descriptions of each project, your role, and the technologies used.

•  Mention any notable achievements or outcomes from these projects.

Key tips:

Keep it concise and relevant

•  Although Eastern European CV’s tend to be more detailed than Western Europe, try to keep it as concise as possible. 

•  Focus on relevant experience and skills that align with the types of projects you are seeking.

Format for readability

•  Use a clean, professional layout with consistent formatting.

• Choose a readable font and avoid excessive use of colors or graphics.

•  Use headings and bullet points to organise information and make it easy to scan.

Proofread and edit

•  Carefully proofread your CV to eliminate any typos or grammatical errors.

•  Consider asking a colleague or mentor to review it and provide feedback.

Tailor your CV for each application

•  Customise your CV for each job or project you apply for.

•  Highlight the most relevant experience and skills that match the specific requirements of the position.

Creating a professional and compelling CV is an essential step in maximising your earning potential as a freelance technology professional in Eastern Europe. Despite the rise of digital profiles, a well-crafted CV remains a powerful tool for showcasing your skills, experience, and value to potential clients. By following these tips, you can create a CV that sets you apart from the competition and opens doors to new opportunities. 

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If you’d like to arrange an informal chat about your tech career with one of our expert consultants, please email cee@redglobal.com.