Did you know that 75% of CVs never reach human eyes because they’re filtered out by applicant tracking systems (ATS)? One of the biggest mistakes jobseekers make is using a one-size-fits-all approach when applying for roles across different industries. In today’s competitive job market, a tailored CV isn’t just a “nice to have”-it’s essential.
At Lateral Connect, we guide our mentees through every step of the career journey, including how to craft compelling CVs that make it past AI filters and impress real recruiters. Whether you’re exploring cybersecurity, business operations, or marketing, adapting your CV to match the specific role or industry can be the key to landing that all-important interview.
In this week’s edition, we explore why having more than one CV is not only acceptable, but often recommended-plus how to use your academic and extracurricular experiences to your advantage, even with minimal job history.
One CV Doesn’t Fit All – Here’s What You Need to Know
In an ideal world, one well-written CV would be enough to land any job. But in reality, especially for those applying across multiple industries or departments, tailoring your CV for each opportunity is key.
Why You Should Have More Than One CV
Different roles require different skills-and your CV should reflect that. Employers and recruiters often use AI-powered software to scan CVs for keywords specific to a role. A generic CV that doesn’t match the job description is more likely to be filtered out.
If you’re applying for roles in cybersecurity, business, and marketing, for example, each of those sectors prioritises different competencies. It’s essential to highlight relevant skills, experiences, and achievements for each.
Even if you have limited work experience, you can draw from:
- University or college projects
- Volunteering
- Internships
- Extracurricular activities
These experiences help to demonstrate the core capabilities that employers are looking for-like leadership, communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
Applying for More Than One Role at the Same Company? Read This First.
It’s tempting to apply for several jobs within the same company, especially if the organisation’s mission aligns with your own. However, this should be done strategically.
If you decide to apply for two roles:
- Make sure your CVs are distinct, tailored to each position
- Avoid copy-pasting the same application
- Read the job descriptions carefully-don’t apply just for the brand name
- Stay within similar career families (e.g. marketing assistant & social media coordinator)
Don’t overdo it. Applying for too many roles at once can look unfocused and reduce your chances of standing out. Most companies have a single HR department, and inconsistencies between applications may hurt your credibility.
LinkedIn vs CV: Keep It Consistent
LinkedIn can be a powerful tool-but only if it aligns with your job applications. If your profile highlights skills and goals that don’t match the roles you’re applying for, it could work against you. Keep your messaging consistent across platforms.
Top Tip: If you don’t succeed in one role, consider reaching out to the HR department and asking if you could be considered for another position-with a tailored CV attached.
A tailored CV increases your chances of landing an interview-fact. By customising your applications to each role and highlighting relevant experiences (even non-work ones), you show employers that you’re serious, prepared, and aligned with what they need.
At Lateral Connect, we support our mentees in crafting CVs that aren’t just technically sound but strategically written. With guidance from experienced mentors, you’ll learn how to identify key skills, beat applicant tracking systems, and present your story confidently.
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