Most job seekers don’t realize how employers view their applications. Many assume that listing past roles and responsibilities is enough, but the truth is, hiring managers are scanning quickly for something much more specific.
So, what exactly are employers looking for in a candidate profile?
Let’s break it down.
Relevance Comes First
When reviewing CVs or online profiles, the first thing recruiters look for is relevance to the role they’re hiring for.
They’re asking:
- Does this person have experience in similar roles?
- Are the right skills and tools mentioned?
- Do the responsibilities and achievements line up with what the job requires?
If they can’t see that match in the first 10–15 seconds, they’ll likely move on.
Tip: Review the job post carefully and use similar language in your CV. That includes titles, tools, and skills.
Clear, Organized Information
Presentation matters. Employers are skimming, not reading every word.
What they like to see:
- Bullet points, not big paragraphs
- Consistent formatting (job title, company, dates)
- A clear summary at the top of who you are and what you bring
- Up-to-date info old or incomplete profiles signal a lack of effort
Keywords That Match the Role
Most employers use filtering tools or manual scanning to find specific keywords related to the job.
These include:
- Job-specific skills (e.g. AutoCAD, Salesforce, QuickBooks)
- Certifications (e.g. PMP, CPA, First Aid Certified)
- Soft skills (e.g. communication, leadership, teamwork)
Tip: Use the job description as a guide. Include those keywords naturally in your profile and bullet points
Achievements Over Duties
Many candidates simply list what they were responsible for. But what employers really want is to know what you accomplished.
Recent Activity & Updates
Employers can often see when you last updated your profile or CV. If it’s been untouched for months, it signals a lack of interest or availability.
How Ethiojobs Can Help
At Ethiojobs, we’re committed to helping candidates succeed. Our platform is designed to make your professional profile stand out to the right employers.
You can:
- Build and update your CV directly on the platform
- Add certifications, achievements, and skills
- Keep your profile visible and searchable to top recruiters
Log in now and check if your profile reflects your best self
Final Thought
Remember, your profile isn’t just a summary of your past it’s your marketing pitch for the job you want. The clearer, more relevant, and more tailored it is, the better your chances of catching the right employer’s attention.
You don’t need more experience. You need better presentation. And we’re here to help.