Submitting your CV (Curriculum Vitae) is one of the most important steps in applying for a job. It is often the first impression you make with an employer, and how you submit it can determine whether you move forward in the hiring process or get overlooked. In today’s competitive job market, knowing the correct way to prepare, format, and submit your CV can significantly increase your chances of success. how to submit your CV to a job application
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This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about submitting your CV — from preparation and formatting, to choosing the right submission method, and finally following up after your application.
1. Understanding the Purpose of a CV
A CV is not just a list of your work history. It is a professional document that communicates your skills, qualifications, and experience in a way that matches the needs of an employer. The goal is simple: to convince a recruiter or hiring manager that you are the right candidate for the role.
When you understand the purpose of a CV, it becomes clear why submission matters. Submitting it incorrectly — such as in the wrong format, to the wrong email address, or with missing information — can harm your chances before anyone even reads your qualifications.
2. Preparing Your CV Before Submission
Before you even think about hitting “send” or clicking “apply,” you need to ensure your CV is properly prepared. A well-prepared CV has the following features:
a) Tailored to the Job Description
Avoid sending the same CV to every employer. Instead, read the job description carefully and highlight the skills and experiences that match the specific role. Tailoring your CV shows that you put effort into the application.
b) Professional Formatting
Recruiters prefer clean, easy-to-read documents. Use a professional font such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, and keep font size between 10 and 12 points. Use headings, bullet points, and consistent formatting throughout.
c) Correct File Format
Most employers request CVs in PDF or Word Document (.docx) format. PDFs are usually better because they maintain formatting across different devices. Always check the job posting for specific requirements.
d) Proofreading and Editing
Spelling or grammar mistakes can create a negative impression. Proofread your CV multiple times, or ask a friend to review it for errors.
3. Choosing the Right Method of Submission
There are several ways employers accept CVs. How you submit yours depends on the company and the job posting. Below are the most common methods:
a) Submitting via Email
- Attach your CV as a PDF or Word document.
- Use a clear subject line such as: “Application for [Job Title] – [Your Name]”.
- Write a short, professional email message that introduces yourself and mentions the role you are applying for.
- Avoid leaving the body of the email blank.
b) Submitting via an Online Job Portal
Many companies use job boards such as Indeed, LinkedIn, or Glassdoor. In this case:
- Upload your CV directly to the portal.
- Fill in any additional application fields (experience, skills, cover letter).
- Make sure your uploaded CV is the most recent version.
c) Submitting via a Company’s Career Website
Larger companies often have their own application systems (ATS — Applicant Tracking Systems). Here:
- Follow the instructions carefully.
- Ensure your CV is ATS-friendly (avoid complex formatting, images, or unusual fonts).
- Some systems may require you to copy information from your CV into online forms. Do this carefully to avoid mistakes.
d) Hand Delivery or Post (Less Common)
Although rare, some organizations may still accept physical CV submissions. If so, print your CV on quality paper and place it in a neat folder.
4. Writing a Strong Cover Letter
Even though many employers make cover letters optional, attaching one can give you an advantage. A cover letter:
- Shows your enthusiasm for the role.
- Highlights key experiences relevant to the position.
- Personalizes your application.
When submitting a CV, always check whether the employer has requested a cover letter. If they have, attach it as a separate PDF or include it in the body of your email.
5. Best Practices for Email Submissions
If you are applying by email, here are some key tips to ensure professionalism:
- File Naming: Save your CV as “YourName_CV.pdf” instead of generic names like “resume.pdf.”
- Email Address: Use a professional email address (ideally your first and last name). Avoid casual ones.
- Attachments: Attach both your CV and cover letter (if required).
- Polite Closing: End your email with “Kind regards” or “Sincerely,” followed by your full name and contact details.
6. Ensuring Your CV Passes ATS Systems
Many employers now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan CVs before a human recruiter ever sees them. To optimize for ATS:
- Use standard section headings such as “Work Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.”
- Avoid using images, charts, or fancy templates.
- Use keywords from the job description in your CV.
- Keep formatting simple with bullet points and text.
7. Following Up After Submission
Once you submit your CV, the process does not end there. Employers often receive hundreds of applications. Following up politely can make you stand out.
- Wait 5–7 business days before following up.
- Send a short email or LinkedIn message asking about the status of your application.
- Keep it professional and avoid sounding desperate. Example:
“Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name], I hope you are doing well. I submitted my application for the [Job Title] position on [Date], and I wanted to kindly follow up to ask if there are any updates on the process. Thank you for your time and consideration.”
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Submitting a CV might sound simple, but many candidates make mistakes that cost them opportunities. Avoid these errors:
- Sending your CV without a subject line.
- Attaching the wrong file or outdated CV.
- Forgetting to include contact details.
- Using unprofessional email addresses.
- Not following instructions in the job posting.
9. Tips to Increase Your Chances of Success
Submitting your CV is just one part of the job search process. To improve your overall success rate:
- Update Your LinkedIn Profile: Many recruiters will check it after reading your CV.
- Network: Sometimes knowing someone inside the company can help your CV stand out.
- Be Consistent: Ensure the information on your CV matches what is on your LinkedIn or job portal profiles.
- Keep It Short: A CV should be 1–2 pages. Employers don’t have time to read long documents.
10. Final Checklist Before Submission
Before you finally send or upload your CV, ask yourself:
- Is my CV tailored to this role?
- Did I save it in the correct format?
- Is my cover letter attached (if required)?
- Is the file name professional?
- Did I follow the submission instructions exactly as stated?
If the answer to all is yes, you are ready to submit confidently.
Conclusion
Submitting your CV to a job application is more than just attaching a file. It is a process that requires attention to detail, professionalism, and strategy. By preparing your CV carefully, following the employer’s instructions, and submitting it in the correct format, you greatly improve your chances of getting noticed.
Remember: Your CV is often your first impression. Treat the submission process with the same importance as the content of the CV itself. With careful preparation and professional presentation, you can make sure your CV not only reaches the right person but also stands out in a competitive job market.