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Two Types of CVs – Which One Do You Have?

When applying for jobs, your CV is crucial in getting noticed and securing an interview. In a previous post, I discussed how simply enhancing a CV isn’t the only factor affecting your job search. However, this doesn’t mean we should neglect optimizing our CVs before applying.

Personally, when reviewing or helping someone enhance their CV, I notice two main types of optimization.

CVs Optimized for Shortlisting

First, there are CVs optimized for shortlisting. These CVs are designed to pass applicant tracking systems (ATS) and capture recruiters’ attention. They include relevant keywords from the job description, a clean, structured format, and highlights of your skills and achievements. The goal is to get past initial filters and increase your chances of an interview.

CVs Optimized for Truthfulness

Second, there are CVs optimized for truthfulness. These CVs focus on accuracy and honesty. Instead of manipulating content to match job descriptions, they reflect your real skills and experience, avoid exaggeration or buzzwords, and provide a clear, authentic view of your career. This builds realistic expectations and fosters trust with potential employers.

Which type is better? That’s the question I keep pondering. I’ve noticed most people try to make their CVs pass computer filters and catch a recruiter’s eye. Personally, I believe prioritizing truthfulness is most important, something often lacking in today’s job market. When everyone’s worried about keywords and how their CV looks to computers. I’m wondering if we’ve lost sight of the value of genuine representation in our professional narratives. It’s a thought I wanted to share and explore.

This is my personal opinion. I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

Polishing Your CV, is Really a Solution?

I run ITPro.lk, a platform that processes IT job applications daily. A frequently asked question is: “I am applying for jobs, but I am not getting a good response. Can you review my CV and tell me how I can improve it?”. From what I’ve seen, most CVs are well-written and don’t need major improvements. The internet is already flooded with CV guides, YouTube Gurus, templates, and services, which has helped to raise this standard.

The real challenge today is discovering the truth about candidates and the companies/roles they apply for. Both sides often present polished, unrealistic versions of themselves online, creating a trust gap in the employer-candidate relationship.

This reminds me of how relationships worked before the internet and social media. Back then, connections were deeper and more genuine. Today, the initial contact is easy and cheap. Despite better communication tools, the quality of relationships has declined today. The same is happening between employers and candidates.

Focusing too much on perfecting CVs to solve employment issues is like blaming your horoscope for relationship problems. It misses the real issues of authenticity and trust.