It can be challenging to know how to make a CV stand out, and entertainment is no exception. Competition for work can be fierce in the entertainment industry, so it is critical that candidates do all they can to stand out among the crowd. A well written, concise and stylish CV is a great way to do so.
There are a lot of elements that go into a successful and eye-catching CV. Candidates need to do more than list their skills. Instead, showing proof of these skills through achievements at work and the roles and responsibilities taken on. Candidates also need to choose an appealing format and layout to display their CV in a way that is easy to read and digest.
Know How to Convert to PDF and Back
One mistake that many job seekers make is sending their CVs as Word documents rather than PDFs. Sending a CV as a PDF is often seen as the more professional choice, so the first thing candidates should learn is how to export a Word document to a PDF. Knowing how to convert it back from a PDF to a Word document can also be invaluable for any rewrites and adjustments needed.
That being said, some recruiters prefer candidates to send their CVs as a Word document, so it is best to check with the person who will be reviewing the CV. Generally speaking, if sending a CV direct to a potential employer, consider making it a PDF.
Adjust Tone to the Job
The tone used when writing a CV can make a big difference. For instance, if applying for a comedy writing job for a TV show, candidates need to show the ability to be funny. However, humour in a CV might not be appropriate for jobs in fields like health and safety on set. Candidates should read over the job description to get an idea of how serious, playful or humorous to be in a CV.
Choose a Stylish and Unique Format
The format of a successful CV should be eye-catching and stylish without being over the top or too busy on the eyes. It is a good idea to experiment with different templates to find one that is unique and professional and will draw a reader’s eye to all the most essential information.
It can be tricky to know how to balance finding a unique and attractive format and template without going over the top, so consider running a final choice by a few trusted friends or co-workers to see what they think.
List Credits
The next thing any employer in the entertainment industry will want to see is a list of credits. Ensure that these include the role, the name of the production, the director and production company and the dates worked. Many directors and production companies collaborate, so listing a well-known name can be a great way to get an in.
Proofread Thoroughly
There’s nothing more off-putting to a potential employer than a CV with spelling or grammatical errors. Read through the CV carefully to identify any mistakes. Candidates could also consider investing in proofreading software or using free versions of quality applications like Grammarly.
Show the Finished CV to Trusted Loved Ones
Often when working on a CV for a long time, people can get fatigued and may not notice some errors o8r issues in the flow of writing. Having a CV looked over by someone with fresh eyes can be invaluable to spot any issues that might have been missed. Talk to a trusted loved one and someone with a good grasp of written English. Consider sending it to multiple friends and family to get the best results.
Keep it Short and Sweet
Avoid the temptation of putting too much detail into a CV. While it may feel logical to include plenty of information on various accomplishments and skills, any CV longer than a side of A4 will usually lose the reader’s attention. A CV should be concise and relevant and save the detail for a call-back, audition or interview.
Consider Including Social Media Links and Headshots
Depending on the role applied for, candidates may need to include headshots. This is most common with actors and stunt doubles. It is best to avoid including a headshot if the role is part of the behind-the-scenes crew, as looks should not play any role in the hiring process.
Some people also include links to social media, which can be a good way for an employer to get to know a candidate better before the interview. If candidates choose to do this, they should curate their social media carefully and that there is nothing controversial or unprofessional that might make an employer less likely to hire them. It may be best to set up separate professional accounts for social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter.
