CV Tips for Creatives: Stand Out in Competitive Industries

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 18 July 2023 5 min read

In the competitive world of creative industries, standing out can be a challenge. Yet, one tool that is often underestimated in its power to make an impression is your Curriculum Vitae (CV). A well-crafted CV is more than a summary of your experiences; it's a showcase of your identity, style, and unique skills. With the right strategies, your CV can be a platform for demonstrating your creative prowess and professional acumen. This blog post will explore key "cv necessities for creatives: how to stand out in a competitive industry."

Create a Unique Brand

Building a distinctive brand for yourself is the cornerstone of standing out in any industry, especially in creative fields. This goes beyond simply choosing a cool logo or catchy tagline. Your brand should encompass your unique style, your philosophy, and the unique value you bring to the table.

Attract with Aesthetics

When it comes to cv necessities for creatives, aesthetics play a crucial role in conveying your brand. Your CV's design should reflect your creative style and personality. Think of your CV as a canvas where you present a visual narrative of your professional journey. For a graphic designer, this may mean using vibrant colors and innovative layouts; for a writer, it could be about a minimalist design with a focus on typography. Regardless of your field, your CV's aesthetics should be engaging, cohesive, and representative of your brand.

Personalize your Portfolio

Another essential aspect of brand-building is personalizing your portfolio. Your portfolio gives potential employers a glimpse into your capabilities and style. Make sure it features a diverse array of your best work. This could include a fashion collection you've designed, ad campaigns you've worked on, or articles you've written. Ensure that your portfolio is not just a collection of works, but a curated exhibition of your creativity and skills.

Show your Style

Your style is what makes you unique. This is not just about how you design, write, or create, but also about how you think, solve problems, and approach projects. Showcasing your style in your CV can make you stand out in a competitive industry. Highlight projects where your style led to success or where you innovated traditional approaches. Remember, your style is your brand's signature, and your CV is the perfect platform to showcase it.

When it comes to CV necessities for creatives, harnessing the power of social media is an absolute game-changer. Not only does it extend your network, but it also provides a platform to showcase your work and interact with industry influencers. Here are some ways to leverage social media to your advantage:

Leverage LinkedIn

LinkedIn is the professional's playground. It's more than just a digital CV — it's a platform where you can connect with industry leaders, share your accomplishments, and stay updated on industry trends. But how can you stand out on LinkedIn? Start with a compelling profile: a professional photo, a catchy headline, and a comprehensive summary. Showcase your projects, share insightful posts, and engage with your connections. Remember, LinkedIn is not just about being seen, but also about seeing — stay informed and stay relevant.

Instagram your Inspiration

Instagram is a haven for creatives. It's a visual platform that can serve as a digital portfolio of your work. Post images of your projects, share behind-the-scenes snippets of your creative process, and use the platform to tell your brand's story. Engage with your followers, respond to comments, and use hashtags strategically to reach a wider audience. Instagram is not just about sharing images, it's about sharing experiences — make yours count.

Tweet your Triumphs

Twitter may seem like an unlikely platform for creatives, but it's more powerful than you might think. Twitter is all about conversations and staying updated. Share your achievements, engage in industry discussions, and follow influencers in your field. It's also a great platform for sharing articles, blog posts, or resources that reflect your brand and your industry knowledge. Remember, Twitter is about being part of the conversation — make sure your voice is heard.

Network like a Pro

Under the umbrella of CV necessities for creatives, networking can play a key role. Through networking, you can forge valuable connections, gain industry insights, and discover new opportunities. Here's how to network effectively:

Attend Industry Events

Fairs, seminars, workshops, and conferences are great for networking. These events not only offer learning opportunities, they also provide a platform to meet like-minded individuals, potential employers, and industry influencers. When attending these events, come prepared. Have your business cards handy, your elevator pitch polished, and don't be afraid to introduce yourself and start conversations. Remember, it's not just about who you meet, but also how you connect and follow up with them.

Connect with Colleagues

Building strong relationships with colleagues, both past and present, can open doors to new opportunities. They can provide references, share job openings, and offer insights into different aspects of your industry. Keep in mind, it's not just about what you can get from these relationships, but also what you can give. Be supportive, share opportunities, and maintain these connections — they could prove invaluable in the future.

Join Professional Groups

Professional groups, whether online or offline, are a treasure trove of networking opportunities. These groups often consist of like-minded professionals who share common interests and goals. They provide a platform to share resources, seek advice, and collaborate on projects. While joining these groups, ensure that you actively participate and contribute. Remember, networking is a two-way street — it's about giving as much as you're getting.

Create Compelling Content

When it comes to CV necessities for creatives, content is king. It's your chance to shine, to show off your skills and accomplishments. But how do you create content that stands out in a competitive industry? Here are some tips:

Write with Clarity

Clarity is key. Make sure your CV is easy to read and understand. Avoid jargon and keep your sentences short and to the point. Use bullet points for listing skills or achievements. Remember, recruiters often skim CVs so make sure yours is clear and concise.

Use Action Verbs

Action verbs bring your CV to life. They make your achievements more compelling and show that you're proactive. Use words like "led", "created", "initiated", or "increased" to start your bullet points. For example, instead of saying "Responsible for designing a new logo", say "Designed a new logo that increased brand recognition by 20%". The latter paints a more vivid picture and shows the impact of your work.

Highlight Achievements

When writing a CV, it's easy to get caught up in listing duties and responsibilities. But what really makes you stand out are your achievements. Did you increase sales in your previous role? Did you win a design award? Did you successfully manage a big project? Don't be shy to showcase these wins. They show that you're not only capable of doing the job, but also excelling at it.

If you're looking to make your CV stand out in competitive creative industries, we highly recommend checking out the workshop 'How to Price Yourself as a Creative' by Olivia Ghalioungui. In this workshop, you'll learn valuable tips and insights on showcasing your value as a creative professional, which will help you craft a CV that truly stands out.