An online CV is now an everyday part of the job hunt, but there are some simple ways to make sure yours catches the eye of a potential new boss.

Who needs paper?

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We all know it’s a fiercely competitive job market out there. And when focusing on applying for jobs and fending off the competition for elusive openings, it’s easy forget about those employers who are out there searching for talented people like you.

At Naturejobs, we have scientific employers around the world searching for potential candidates and downloading their CVs . If you haven’t already uploaded your CV you really are missing out on a simple route to finding a perfect role and connecting with great science employers.

If you’re planning on uploading your CV to Naturejobs, use the following checklist to get your CV to the top of the list.

• Stay current. Make sure your online profile is complete. Provide as much information about yourself as possible so a potential new boss knows exactly who you are and what makes you tick. Check your CV is up to date, and do that regularly, topping it up with any new information on, say, public speaking, awards or new publications. If you have been shortlisted by an employer, they will be alerted every time you update your CV.

• Link it all up. The joy of online job hunting is you can include plenty of web links in your CV to other materials should anyone be interested, without spamming them if they are not.

• Re-location re-location. The majority of the employers who are using our website are looking for people who might be willing to relocate. Have a good think about whether this applies to you, and if it might, tick that box!

• Be specific. Remember that employers will be using the search tool to find the ideal candidate. Maximise your chances of getting to the top of the pile by selecting all the specialties that apply to you when filling out your profile, rather than using the ‘other’ box, as it’s unlikely employers will be searching for ‘other’ as a specialty.

• Match up the keywords. Check the keywords you use in both your CV and your personal summary, as both of these are picked up when an employer searches. Check through the job advertisements and job descriptions of positions you are interested in, and make sure they match the words in your personal summary and CV.

• Be visible. Make sure your CV is searchable by ticking the box on your profile page.  Of course, the option is there to make your CV invisible to employers in case you are worried about a current employer seeing your profile. Remember though – these days, it’s fairly customary to have an online employment profile, even if you are not actively seeking a new job. It’s the way many scientific collaborations now take place.

For more tips on writing a CV and cover letter, check out the Naturejobs career toolkit here.