How long should your CV be? Should you include a picture of yourself ? Are cover letters really that important? Will employers search for you online? Our career experts are always asked such questions by job seekers, and the latest Bayt.com infographic, "Creating the Perfect Modern CV for the MENA", answers them and more. So, what does the ideal CV look like according to professionals who make hiring decisions in the MENA? 1. The ideal CV is short and sweet. While a detailed CV might sound like a good idea, it’s a no-no! Keep your CV short and clear, and keep the details for a customized cover letter. 2. The ideal CV includes a professional picture. Do you have a professional picture of yourself in your CV? While some sources say that you should never include a picture, this doesn’t hold true for employers in the MENA region. Do include a picture with your CV, but make sure it’s a very professional one that represents you well. 3. The ideal CV has a great cover letter included. Cover letters are very, very important. The majority of hiring managers in the MENA say that they make a huge difference in the hiring process, so make sure you take the time to write a great one. 4. The ideal CV has all the necessary information. Most professionals making hiring decisions want to see all of the below information in your CV, but make sure to spend most of your time crafting the experience and skills sections, as they are the ones that matter most. The 5 Golden Rules of a Great CV 1. Customize your application to the position you're applying for. 2. A strong cover letter will make a huge difference! Don't forget to include one. 3. Make sure your skills shine through; transferable skills are an important asset! 4. Show a professional picture of yourself. 5. And don't forget... spellcheck! Sloppy grammar and spelling is the most common mistake that job seekers make on their CVs. Is your CV easy to find online? Don’t forget… the person who’s looking at your CV WILL search for you online. Chances are, even if your CV is perfect, your career won't go far in this day and age without a nice online presence. Keep in mind: 1. Employers do care about online recommendations and endorsements. 2. Employers will probably research you online. 3. Employers will use the Internet to source for candidates The Internet can increase your chances of getting a job or advancing your career. You can get a professional public profile on Bayt.com by visiting people.bayt.com. You can engage with other professionals on Bayt.com Specialties. Here is the Bayt.com "Creating the Perfect Modern CV for the MENA" infographic: 
The Bayt.com "Creating the Perfect Modern CV for the MENA" infographic is created from data obtained on the Bayt.com “Modern Job Search in the MENA” poll, which was collected online between September 19 and October 27, 2013, with 10,567 respondents from the UAE, KSA, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia.
