At our recent event, many people asked questions about their CV and how to apply for jobs, especially in the UX field. The bottom line is – with the right approach, you can significantly increase your chances of landing your dream job. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make your application process perfect!

Your CV is your first impression on potential employers. Here’s how to make it count:

1. Personalise your CV for each job you apply for

Avoid generic CVs. Customise your CV to align with each job description by using the exact keywords mentioned in the job posting. This shows recruiters you’ve paid attention and understand what they’re looking for.

However, make sure you can back up everything you claim in your CV. For instance, don’t state you have excellent knowledge in information architecture if your only experience was a single college project four years ago. Do mention your experience, and be ready to answer any related questions during the interview.

2. Highlight achievements with stats

Quantify your accomplishments. Instead of saying, “sped up the process,” say, “due to my design system, we improved the velocity of building designs by 60%.” Numbers catch the eye and provide concrete evidence of your impact.

Again, be prepared to discuss these achievements in the interview by using the STAR framework to answer questions.

3. Natural language matters

Make sure your CV doesn’t sound AI-generated. Use your own words to describe your experience and achievements. Authenticity goes a long way, and you don’t want to be one of a thousand applicants with the same generic CV.

4. CV Format matters

Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen applications, and these systems often work best with Word documents. When uploading your CV to an ATS, ensure it’s in .doc or .docx format to avoid any issues with keyword recognition.

Additionally, have another well-designed CV in PDF format that you can send directly to employers.

5. Align with job descriptions

Carefully read the job description and incorporate similar language into your CV. If the job posting emphasises “design system skills” or “team leadership”, make sure these terms are prominent in your CV if they genuinely reflect your experience.

6. Quality over Quantity

With all the above in mind, instead of sending out hundreds of generic applications, focus on fewer roles that truly fit your skills and interests. Apply only when you have completely customized your CV for the company you are applying to. A well-targeted, thoroughly-researched application is much more effective.

7. Adjust your Portfolio

Just like your CV, your portfolio should be tailored to the job you’re applying for. Showcase projects that are relevant to the role and highlight the skills mentioned in the job description.

This doesn’t mean you need to get rid of all your other projects. Leave them in your portfolio, but make the relevant ones immediately visible to the company you’re applying to.

8. Show your Process

Employers want to see how you approach problems. Ensure your case studies showcase your research, design process, and how you tested your solutions. The final designs are not as important as the process itself.

Also, use the last part of your case study to discuss your learnings and what you would do differently. This demonstrates how much you’ve invested in your project. Address any areas you feel could have been improved—this is your chance to show growth. Hiring managers love when candidates reflect on their projects after completing them.

9. Highlight soft skills

UX roles often involve working closely with different teams. Highlight your communication and teamwork skills, as these are crucial for success in UX. Demonstrate how you’ve handled challenging stakeholders, the obstacles you’ve faced, and how you overcame them.
Be prepared to discuss these experiences in your interview, as stakeholder management is a key skill that every UX designer needs to master.

10.Keep your CV updated

Regularly update your portfolio with your latest work to demonstrate continuous improvement and learning. This shows your dedication to the field, as UX is constantly evolving with new trends and tools.