Recruiters often spend less than a minute on a first read of your CV. These five changes make that time count.
1. Lead with a sharp profile
Open with three or four lines that say who you are, what you’re great at and the role you’re targeting. Skip clichés like “hard-working team player” and show it with specifics instead.
2. Tailor it to every role
Mirror the language of the job description. If the advert asks for “stakeholder management”, use that phrase where it honestly describes your experience.
3. Show achievements, not duties
Replace task lists with outcomes. “Handled customer queries” becomes “Resolved 40+ customer queries a day, keeping satisfaction scores above target.”
4. Keep the layout clean
- Two pages is usually enough for most professionals
- Use clear headings and consistent dates
- Avoid tables, text boxes and graphics that software can’t read
5. Proofread — then ask someone else
Small errors undermine big achievements. Read it aloud, then have a second pair of eyes check it. That’s exactly what a CV review with us is for.