Careers
How to Improve Your Professional CV
Seven practical changes that make a CV easier for employers to read.
By Writing Experts Editorial Team (editable) ·
Employers often read a CV quickly. Your task is to make the most relevant information easy to find.
1. Tailor it to the role
Read the job description and put the most relevant skills and experience first. A single generic CV rarely suits every application.
2. Open with a short summary
Two or three lines stating your field, level and main strengths help the reader understand you at once.
3. Describe achievements, not only duties
Instead of listing responsibilities, show what you did and what resulted. Use figures only when they are accurate and you can explain them.
4. Keep the layout clean
Use consistent headings, dates and spacing. Avoid dense blocks of text, and keep to the length normal for your career stage and market.
5. Use clear, honest language
Plain verbs are better than vague phrases. Do not overstate your role or skills. Employers may verify them.
6. Check every detail
Spelling, dates, job titles and contact details should all be correct. Ask someone else to read it too.
7. Prepare the right language version
If you are applying in Arabic and in English, make sure both versions carry the same facts and are each written naturally for their readers.
A CV does not win a job by itself, but a clear one makes sure your experience is seen.