What is the Best Way to Write an Operations Assistant CV to Get an Interview?

A well-optimised CV is the single most important factor in securing an interview for an Operations Assistant role. To stand out, your CV must move beyond a simple list of duties and instead showcase quantifiable achievements, relevant skills, and a clear understanding of operational efficiency. Based on our assessment of successful applications, focusing on impact-driven bullet points and keyword optimisation can increase your interview callback rate significantly.

What Should an Operations Assistant CV Include?

Your CV is a marketing document designed to pass through an initial candidate screening process, often aided by an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). This software scans applications for keywords related to the job description. Therefore, every section must be tailored to the specific role.

A strong CV for an operations assistant includes:

• Contact Information: Full name, location (city), phone number, and a professional email address.
• Professional Summary: A 2-3 line elevator pitch that highlights your years of experience, core operational skills, and a key achievement.
• Work Experience: This is the most critical section. List roles in reverse-chronological order, focusing on achievements rather than responsibilities.
• Skills: A dedicated section for both hard skills (e.g., MS Office Suite, specific software) and soft skills (e.g., communication, problem-solving).
• Education and Certifications: List your highest degree and any relevant qualifications, such as a Diploma in Operations Management.

How Do You Write Impactful Bullet Points for an Operations Assistant CV?

The difference between a generic CV and an interview-winning one lies in how you describe your experience. Instead of stating what you did, demonstrate the value you added. This often involves using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) as a framework to structure your points.

Consider the transformation from a duty to an achievement:

Action verbs are crucial for starting each bullet point. Use words like streamlined, coordinated, implemented, managed, reduced, improved, or analysed to create a dynamic and proactive impression.

What is the Ideal Layout and Format for an Operations Assistant CV?

Readability is paramount. Recruiters often spend less than 10 seconds on an initial CV scan. A clean, professional layout ensures they quickly find the information they need.

• Length: Aim for one page if you have under 10 years of experience. Two pages are acceptable for more extensive careers.
• Font and Spacing: Use a clean, standard font like Arial or Calibri (11-12pt) with ample white space to prevent a cluttered look.
• Headings: Use clear, bolded headings for each section (e.g., Experience, Skills).
• Bullet Points: These are essential for breaking up text and improving scannability. Avoid long paragraphs.
• File Format: Save and send your CV as a PDF unless the job application specifies otherwise, as this preserves formatting.

Proofread your CV meticulously. Spelling or grammatical errors can immediately disqualify you. If possible, have a colleague or mentor review it before submission.

To maximise your chances, tailor your CV for every single application by mirroring the language in the job description, quantify your achievements with numbers and percentages, and maintain a clean, scannable format that highlights your operational expertise.