Sourcing is often seen as the backbone of any successful company. As a role that's built upon the art of finding and securing the best resources, from goods to services and skilled personnel, a Sourcing professional's CV needs to reflect these core strengths. Companies need these experts to navigate the competitive world of procurement, making sure their operations hum smoothly. Your CV should reflect this.
Typically, individuals in the Sourcing role start their journey with an overview of the procurement landscape, honing their negotiation and contract management skills along the way. They're often seen climbing the corporate ladder, evolving from junior buyers to procurement executives, and then into leadership positions overseeing procurement strategies. In recent years - notably between 2023 and 2024 - there has been a leaning towards technology-aided sourcing. Digital tools, AI and predictive analysis are now sought-after skills in this industry.
Now, let's talk about CVs and resumes for a moment. It's a mad world out there with lots of conflicting advice, but things are actually quite simple: in the Sourcing world, think of CVs and resumes as twins with different names. They are simply naming differences depending on whether you are in the UK, Europe, Australia or dealing with employers from these regions. Unless you're leaking into the realm of academia or research - they should be the same 1 to 2-page document, detailing your skills and experience, a mirror to what we describe as resumes.
In this article, we'll discuss how your resume - or CV - can tell your unique sourcing story. We'll share 2024’s top CV templates, highlight skills that recruiters like us are scouting for, and divulge the little 'extras' that can really make you stand out from the crowd. Whether you're entering the world of sourcing or a pro looking to refresh your CV, we've got you covered.
As a Sourcing Manager, you're the oil that keeps the sourcing cycle running smoothly. You ensure that the supply chain is unbroken, negotiating deals, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and providing critical expertise in supplier relationships. The role has evolved recently with a focus on data interpretation and digital sourcing systems. When writing your CV, think about how you've been involved in these trends, and how you've made tangible impacts in your previous roles. Your CV needs to show what you've achieved, as well as your ability to adapt to these changing industry practices.
As a Sourcing Manager, you're expected to create and implement effective sourcing strategies. On your CV, detail a few key strategies you've developed and how they increased efficiency or saved costs for your previous employers. This shows you're not only strategic but also results-oriented.
As a Sourcing Specialist, you’re the backbone of any company's supply chain management, responsible for strategizing and refining procurement processes. Crafting a CV for this role requires a clear understanding of this tactical, relationship-driven job. Since companies are increasingly recognizing the value of efficient sourcing, they’re hunting for professionals who are not just proficient in negotiating contracts, but also have the foresight to predict market trends. With technology playing a larger role in sourcing, familiarity with digital tools and data analysis is a must. So, when creating your CV, remember to showcase these key skills in the context of your past achievements.
The world of sourcing is all about strategy and long-term planning. Remember to illustrate your strategic thinking skills on your CV. Discuss instances where your well-planned approaches have led to cost savings or efficiency gains in previous roles.
Companies nowadays are relying more on technology in their sourcing operations. Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency with relevant digital tools or sourcing platforms, and any experience with data analysis.
As a Strategic Sourcing Manager, you're at the forefront of supply chain management and procurement strategies. This role requires a shrewd negotiator with a knack for identifying cost-saving opportunities and building strong vendor relationships. Recently, there's been a push towards sustainability in sourcing practices, with companies favouring candidates who demonstrate awareness of this trend. When crafting your CV, don't underestimate the importance of showcasing your analytical skills and strategic planning prowess, in conjunction with your knowledge of market trends. Also, ensure to present tangible results of your effective sourcing strategies.
In your CV, it is crucial to illustrate your adeptness at managing vendor relationships. Talk about specific instances where you’ve successfully negotiated contracts to benefit the company. This directly shows your practical experience and your strategic approach to vendor management.
Highlighting your steps towards sustainable sourcing is a major plus in today's eco-conscious business landscape. Detail any CSR initiatives or green procurement strategies you’ve implemented, and the results achieved. This demonstrates your forward-thinking approach and adaptability to industry trends.
Sourcing is a game of talent hunt, where your skills in profiling, negotiation, and market intelligence are crucial. Your CV should reflect expertise in these areas, much like a treasure map. Study the job description; let those key words guide your CV's narrative. If relationship-building was at the heart of your last sourcing job, let it be known! A sample bullet point may read, "Used rapport-building skills to network with industry professionals."
Be aware of the CV screening process, akin to a secret password check! Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). ATS likes a match between a job's requirements and the skills on your CV. To bypass these gatekeepers, make sure your CV has relevant skills.
For hard skills or software, be specific. So, instead of writing "Used software for sourcing," pen down, "Employed LinkedIn Recruiter to identify and approach suitable candidates." Now you're talking the recruiter's language with your CV whispering, "You've found your source."
This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Sourcing job descriptions and CVs. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more 'important' it is.
"Sourcing CVs" is about finding the best talent. Action verbs can make your CV shine. They show your hands-on experience. Employers want to see how you have made a difference. Using the right words can really help. Put yourself in the picture. Show you can get the job done.
Let's look at some examples. You may have "Created a new system to find top talent". "Created" shows that you took the lead and made something new. Or perhaps you "Reduced hiring costs by streamlining processes". "Reduced" shows you made things better.
When choosing your verbs, think about the job you're aiming for. Pick strong, simple words that show you can deliver the goods. Every word counts when you're sourcing your next role. Choose with care. Let your CV tell your story. You've got this.
For a full list of effective CV action verbs, visit Resume Action Verbs.
Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.
