When it comes to job applications, your CV is often the first impression you make. Recruiters often sift through hundreds of CVs for a single role, many of which look almost identical. To stand out, you need a document that is clear, relevant, and compelling enough to make a recruiter want to keep reading.

Understand the Recruiter’s Perspective

Recruiters care less about the titles you’ve held and more about whether your background matches what the role requires. A CV that gets noticed is one that quickly shows value. Highlight achievements and skills that connect directly to the job, giving recruiters a snapshot of why you’re a strong fit without overloading them with detail.

Structure Matters

The way your CV is organized shapes how easily your information is absorbed. A strong format should guide the reader naturally:

• Header with your name, contact details, and location
• Professional summary in two to three sentences, outlining your expertise
• Work experience in reverse chronological order, focusing on relevant responsibilities and measurable achievements
• Education and certifications tied to your field
• Skills section showcasing both technical and soft skills recruiters look for

Ensure the design is clean, with clear headings and consistent formatting. Since recruiters often skim in seconds, avoid long, blocky paragraphs.

Write With Relevance

Generic CVs rarely get far. Recruiters look for evidence that you understand both the role and the industry. Tailor your CV for each application by echoing language from the job description and spotlighting your most relevant experience.

For example:

• In IT project management, emphasize software delivery, agile methods, or stakeholder coordination
• In insurance, highlight risk analysis, compliance, or client engagement

You don’t need to rewrite everything each time — just adjust key areas such as your summary, skills, and top achievements to match the role.

Focus on Achievements, Not Just Duties

Listing responsibilities alone doesn’t cut it. Recruiters want impact. Ask yourself: Did you streamline a process? Deliver a project ahead of schedule? Improve customer satisfaction? Use numbers where you can.

For instance:
Correct: Optimised claims workflow, achieving a 30% faster processing time
Wrong: Responsible for managing a team of analysts

Keep Language Clear and Professional

Avoid jargon or inflated language. Recruiters appreciate straight forward phrasing that shows ownership. Use strong action verbs like delivered, implemented, achieved, or designed to keep your CV direct and engaging.

Make Skills Easy to Find

Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan CVs before they reach a recruiter. Include relevant keywords naturally, especially in your skills section and professional overview.

For example:

• IT roles may require terms like cybersecurity, systems implementation, programming languages
• Insurance positions often involve tasks like risk evaluation, underwriting, and policy administration

Length and Detail

For most professionals, one to two pages is enough. Share enough detail to demonstrate expertise without overwhelming. Senior leaders may need more, but clarity should always guide the length.

Final Review

Before sending, proofread carefully. Typos and formatting slips suggest carelessness. If possible, ask a colleague or mentor to review — a fresh set of eyes often spots issues you missed.

A well-written CV is more than a list of jobs; it’s a marketing tool that shows why you’re the right candidate. By focusing on relevance, clarity, and measurable impact, you’ll give recruiters every reason to stop skimming and start paying attention.

Your next opportunity is closer than you think. Submit your information here and our team will be in touch with roles that fit your experience.