7 Top Tips to Get Your CV Seen

Your CV only has a few seconds to make an impression, so how do you stand out from the stack and land that interview? Forget quirky fonts or gimmicks; what really matters is clarity, relevance, and impact.

Here are 7 proven tips to get your CV noticed by employers.

Keep it Short and Focused

Recruiters often skim CVs in seconds. Keep yours punchy and to the point, highlighting what’s relevant to the job you’re applying for. Make your skills and experience jump off the page. A short, focused CV shows you can communicate clearly, which is a skill every employer values.

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Tailor It for Every Role

One-size-fits-all doesn’t work. Tweak your CV for each job by highlighting the experience and strengths that match the specific role. Read the job description carefully, and make sure your CV mirrors what they’re looking for. This extra effort shows you’re genuinely interested in the role, not just firing off the same CV to every company.

Focus on Achievements, Not Just Responsibilities

It’s easy to list your daily tasks, but employers want to know what impact you’ve made. Instead of saying:

“Worked on construction sites”

Try:

“Helped complete a residential build two weeks ahead of schedule by assisting with groundwork and materials delivery.”

Quantifying your achievements like this can make a huge difference in catching a recruiter’s eye.

Be Honest

Stick to the facts. Don’t stretch the truth about your qualifications or experience, as employers check. Being genuine builds trust and helps avoid awkward situations later. Honesty also means you’re more likely to find a role where you truly fit, setting you up for long-term success.

Make It Easy to Read

Choose a clear, simple layout with clear headings. Stick to standard fonts and keep it under two pages. Avoid long paragraphs, using bullet points and spacing to help key info stand out. A clean, well-structured CV shows you respect the reader’s time, which goes a long way in the hiring process.

Double-Check Everything

Spelling mistakes and bad grammar can instantly put off an employer. Use a spellchecker, and ideally, get someone else to review it. Free spelling tools are available online. Attention to detail is a key skill in many jobs, and your CV is the first test.

Mind Your Online Presence

Your CV isn’t the only thing employers might look at. Google yourself. Does your public social media reflect the image you want to give a potential employer? Clean up anything that might raise eyebrows. Consistency between your online presence and your CV can build a stronger, more trustworthy personal brand.

Keep going, and stay positive

Ready to take the next step? Check out our fully funded training courses to boost your skills, build your confidence, and make your CV stand out. Take control of your career today.