CV writing guide · Updated 2026-10-15
How to Write a Professional CV
A good CV makes it easy for an employer to understand what you can do, what experience you bring, and why you fit the role. Keep it clear, relevant, and easy to scan. Use this guide as a checklist before sending your next application.
1. Choose a clear structure
For most applicants, a reverse-chronological CV is a practical choice: list your most recent experience first. Use simple headings and consistent dates so recruiters can find information quickly.
- Contact details: name, professional email, phone number, and location if useful.
- Professional profile: two to four lines describing your experience, strengths, and target role.
- Work experience: job title, employer, dates, and a few relevant responsibilities or achievements.
- Education and training: qualifications, certificates, and relevant courses.
- Skills and languages: include skills that relate to the position.
2. Tailor your CV to each job
Read the job advert carefully and identify the skills and experience the employer emphasizes. Reflect those requirements honestly in your profile, skills, and work history. Do not add keywords or qualifications that do not describe your actual experience.
3. Describe results, not only duties
Where possible, explain the impact of your work. Instead of writing “responsible for customer service,” you could say “welcomed customers, handled orders, and resolved routine questions during busy service periods.” Use numbers only when you can support them.
4. Keep the design readable
- Use a legible font and clear section headings.
- Keep spacing, bullet styles, and date formats consistent.
- Prefer concise bullet points over long paragraphs.
- Aim for one page if you have limited experience; use more space when your relevant career history needs it.
- Use a simple layout when applying through online recruitment systems.
5. Check spelling and accuracy
Proofread names, contact details, dates, grammar, and formatting. Ask someone to review the document if possible. Open the exported file before sending it to make sure the layout has not shifted.
6. Write a matching cover letter
A cover letter should explain why you are interested in the specific role and connect two or three relevant strengths to the employer’s needs. Avoid repeating every line of your CV.
Final CV checklist
- My contact details are correct.
- The most relevant experience is easy to find.
- My examples are accurate and specific.
- The CV is tailored to the role.
- Spelling, dates, and exported formatting have been checked.
Ready to put these tips into practice? Use the CVAIGEN free CV and cover letter builder to create and export your documents.
Looking for advice in French? Explore our guides for job applications on French employment websites.