How to Build a CV Recruiters Actually Read

Most CVs get scanned, not read — recruiters often spend under ten seconds on a first pass. Your job isn't to list everything you've ever done; it's to make the reader instantly understand what you're good at and why it's relevant.

Start with a focused summary

Skip the generic objective statement. Replace it with two or three lines that state your role, your strongest skill area, and one measurable result. "Marketing coordinator with 3 years' experience running paid campaigns; grew lead volume 40% in 12 months" tells a recruiter more in one line than a paragraph of adjectives.

Lead with achievements, not duties

Instead of "Responsible for managing social media accounts," write "Grew Instagram following from 2,000 to 18,000 in 8 months through a weekly content calendar and paid boosts." Numbers, timeframes, and outcomes are what separate a forgettable CV from a memorable one.

Keep the format clean

• One or two pages maximum — three only if you have 10+ years of relevant experience.
• Use a simple, single-column layout; many applicant tracking systems fail to parse fancy templates.
• Save and send as PDF unless the job post explicitly asks for Word.
• Use consistent date formats and reverse-chronological order.

Tailor it every time

A CV tailored to the specific job description will always beat a generic one sent to fifty companies. Mirror the language used in the job posting where genuinely accurate — many recruiters and screening tools are literally matching keywords.

A CV's only job is to earn you an interview. Keep it specific, keep it honest, and keep it easy to scan.