How to Write a CV That Gets Interviews

Your CV (or résumé) has one job: to get you an interview. Recruiters often skim each one quickly, so clarity matters more than fancy design.

The ideal structure

1. Contact details: name, phone, email, city and a LinkedIn link if you have one.
2. Short profile: 2–3 lines on who you are and what you offer.
3. Work experience: most recent first.
4. Skills: relevant technical and soft skills.
5. Education and certificates.

Show achievements, not duties

Instead of listing what you were responsible for, show what you achieved. Use numbers where possible.

• Weak: "Responsible for social media."
• Strong: "Grew Instagram followers by 40% in six months with a new content plan."

Tailor it every time

Read the job advert carefully and use the same key words where they truly match your experience. Many companies use software to scan CVs for relevant terms.

Keep it clean

• One to two pages is usually enough.
• Use a simple, readable font and clear headings.
• Save and send it as a PDF unless asked otherwise.
• Use a professional email address.

Check it twice

Spelling mistakes can cost you an interview. Read your CV out loud, use a spell checker, and ask a friend to look it over.

Pair your CV with a short, tailored cover letter or message, and you'll stand out from many other applicants.