How to write the perfect CV

Your CV is your first impression—it’s your chance to showcase your skills, experience, and personality to potential employers. A well-structured and compelling CV can be the difference between landing an interview or being overlooked. So, how do you make sure yours stands out for all the right reasons? Here are our top tips for crafting the perfect CV.

Keep It Clear and Concise

Employers spend an average of six seconds scanning a CV, so make every word count. Stick to two pages, use a clean layout, and keep formatting simple. Bullet points and clear headings help recruiters quickly find key information.

Tailor It to the Role

A one-size-fits-all CV won’t cut it. Tailor your CV for each job by highlighting relevant skills and experience. Pay close attention to the job description and incorporate keywords that align with the role.

Highlight Key Achievements

Instead of just listing responsibilities, showcase what you’ve achieved in each role. Use action words and quantify your successes where possible (e.g., “Increased sales by 20% in six months”). This helps demonstrate the impact you’ve made in previous positions.

Perfect Your Personal Statement

Your personal statement is the first thing recruiters read, so make it compelling. In a few lines, summarise who you are, what you do, and what value you bring. Keep it professional but let your personality shine through.

Proofread and Keep It Updated

Typos and grammar mistakes can make your CV look unprofessional. Proofread carefully and ask someone else to check it over. Keep your CV up to date with new skills, qualifications, and achievements so you're always ready for the next opportunity.

Your CV is your ticket to securing interviews—make sure it does you justice. Need extra help? Hoop is here to support you on your job search journey!