How to write a CV that gets read

Employers often spend less than a minute on a first look at a CV. These tips make yours quick to read and easy to trust.

Keep it clear

• Use one or two pages, one standard font and clear headings.
• Put your name, phone number, email and city at the top. Use a professional email address.
• Save it as a PDF so the layout doesn't change on someone else's device.

Start with a short summary

Write three or four lines: who you are, how many years of experience you have, and the kind of job you want. Keep it specific to the role.

Write your experience well

• List your most recent job first, with the employer, your title and the dates.
• Use short bullet points that start with action words, such as organised, prepared, negotiated, tracked.
• Say what you did and the result. Add numbers only when they are true.
• Avoid empty phrases like "hardworking" on their own. Show it through what you did.

Match the job

Read the job post and use its important words where they honestly describe your experience. Move the most relevant points to the top.

Check before you send

• Proofread for spelling and dates, and ask a friend to read it too.
• Check what the employer expects. For many overseas remote jobs, leave out a photo, age and marital status.
• Never invent experience or qualifications. It gets found out.

Want help?

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