Redundancy might have knocked you down, but now it’s time to get back up and put yourself out there. A strong CV and an impressive online presence can make all the difference in landing your next role. Here’s how to make sure you stand out by updating your CV in Scotland

1. Refresh Your CV for the Scottish Job Market

Employers in Scotland want to see a CV that’s clear, concise, and tailored to the role. Here’s what to focus on when updating your CV in Scotland:

• Start with a punchy personal statement – A short paragraph at the top should highlight your key skills, experience, and what you’re looking for.
• Showcase achievements, not just duties – Instead of listing tasks, highlight results. For example: “Increased sales by 20% in six months” sounds much stronger than “Responsible for sales”.
• Tailor it to each job – A generic CV won’t cut it. Use keywords from job descriptions to pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS).
• Keep it to two pages max – Recruiters don’t have time to read your life story.

2. Polish Your LinkedIn Profile

Recruiters and employers in Scotland are always searching LinkedIn for potential candidates. Make sure your profile is up to scratch:

• Update your headline – Don’t just put your job title. Use it to showcase what you do and what you’re looking for (e.g., “Experienced Marketing Manager | Specialising in Digital Strategy & Brand Growth”).
• Use a professional photo – A clear, friendly, and high-quality image makes you more approachable.
• Write a compelling ‘About’ section – Tell your career story, highlight achievements, and show a bit of personality.
• List relevant skills and get endorsements – The more endorsements you have, the more credible your skills look.
• Engage with content – Like, comment, and share industry-relevant posts to stay visible.

Not have a Linkedin? How to Set Up Your First LinkedIn Profile

3. Clean Up Your Online Presence

Employers do Google candidates—so make sure they like what they see:

• Check your privacy settings on social media – Remove or hide anything unprofessional.
• Google yourself – If something negative comes up, see if you can remove it or push it down with positive content.
• Showcase your work – If relevant, create a portfolio or personal website to highlight your skills.

4. Build Your Network and Get Noticed

Networking is a powerful tool for job hunting. Here’s how to do it effectively:

• Reconnect with old colleagues – Drop them a message and let them know you’re looking for new opportunities.
• Join Scottish industry groups on LinkedIn – Engage in discussions and connect with people in your field.
• Attend networking events – Whether in person or online, meeting people can open unexpected doors.

5. Get Your Applications Right

A great CV and LinkedIn profile are only part of the equation—you need to ace the application process too:

• Write tailored cover letters – Highlight why you’re perfect for the job rather than repeating your CV.
• Follow up – A polite email after applying can show enthusiasm and keep you top of mind.
• Be persistent – Job hunting takes time, so don’t be discouraged by rejections.

Coming Next: Acing a Job Interview in Scotland: How to Impress and Secure the Job

Ready to find your next role? Browse the latest job openings in Scotland on s1jobs today!