The detailed CV

If you are working with recruitment specialists like PN Personnel, we want to understand the full picture. That means your complete work history, achievements, certifications and skills.

We work across multiple clients and industries, so the more we know about you, along with your motivations and career goals, the better we can match you with suitable opportunities. This can include roles or organisations you may not have previously considered.

With over 30 years in business, we have deep knowledge of the Manawatū employment market and strong relationships with a wide range of local employers.

The tailored CV

For specific roles, we may recommend refining your CV to better align with the opportunity.

For example, if you have governance experience such as serving on a school board or as a trustee, we may suggest highlighting this more clearly when applying for roles with councils or boards. These are often highly specific requirements that job seekers may not realise are in demand.

On the other hand, for detail-focused employers, we may recommend removing less relevant information. This helps ensure your key strengths stand out and align directly with what the employer is looking for.

When applying for a role, always:

• Include relevant, specific experience
• Mirror the language used in the job advertisement
• Clearly demonstrate how your skills match the requirements

Never assume the reader will fully understand your previous roles without explanation. Provide context, including company size, scope and key achievements, so employers can clearly comprehend your contribution.

A cover letter will not fix a weak CV

Relying on a generic CV and trying to tailor only your cover letter is unlikely to deliver favourable results, especially in a competitive market. A generic CV for a specialised role will stand out for the wrong reasons.

Employers focus on well-presented, relevant applications. Job-seekers who take the time to tailor their CV demonstrate genuine interest and professionalism.

Complex and rewarding roles require candidates who can communicate clearly and effectively. In the early stages of the process, your CV is often your first impression, so make it count.

Final tip

Taking the time to tailor your CV can significantly improve your chances of progressing.

If you need support, the PN Personnel team recommends Jo Hazlitt from CV Edge, who specialises in creating effective, tailored CVs.