10 Expert Tips for a Standout CV

Did you know? At Activus Recruitment, we offer a free CV checking service! Simply send us your CV, and our team of experts will review it and provide personalised tips on how to improve. Whether it’s tailoring your CV for a specific role or enhancing its overall impact, we’re here to help you stand out in today’s competitive job market.

We know that your CV is often the first impression a potential employer gets of you. Crafting a CV that grabs attention and effectively showcases your skills and experience can make all the difference. 

Here are 10 tips to help you write a CV that stands out:

1. Tailor your CV to the job

Each job application should have a customised CV. Highlight relevant skills and experience that match the job description. Tailoring shows you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the role.

2. Use a clear structure

A CV should be easy to read. Organise your CV with clear sections such as contact details, personal statement, work experience, education, and skills. Use headings and bullet points to make the information easy to navigate.

3. Start with a strong personal statement

Your personal statement is your elevator pitch. In 2-3 sentences, summarise who you are, what you can offer, and what you’re looking for. Make it impactful, specific, and tailored to the job.

4. Focus on achievements, not duties

Rather than just listing your responsibilities in previous roles, focus on what you achieved. Use metrics where possible (e.g., “Increased sales by 20%” or “Managed a team of 10”). This helps demonstrate your impact and value to a potential employer.

5. Use action verbs

When describing your experience, start bullet points with strong action verbs like "managed", "developed", "initiated", "designed", or "led". This keeps the language dynamic and engaging.

6. Keep it concise

Employers often sift through dozens of CVs, so brevity is key. Aim for a CV no longer than two pages. Be selective about what you include, focusing on the most relevant experience and qualifications.

7. Include relevant keywords

Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan CVs. To get through this initial filter, include relevant keywords from the job description. For example, if a job mentions "project management" or "data analysis", ensure these phrases appear naturally in your CV.

8. Highlight transferable skills

If you’re changing industries or roles, emphasize skills that can transfer to the new job. Skills like leadership, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are valuable in any job.

9. Use free online tools

If you’re unsure where to start or want to ensure your CV looks professional, free online apps like Canva offer easy-to-use templates. These templates provide a well-designed starting point that you can personalise with your own information, saving you time and ensuring your CV looks polished.

10. Proofread for errors

Spelling and grammar mistakes can give a poor impression. Proofread your CV carefully, or ask someone else to review it. Attention to detail is critical, and a polished CV demonstrates professionalism.

Still unsure? Feel free to pop us an email and we can have a look at your CV - info@activusrecruitment.com