CVs

A well-crafted CV is essential for showcasing your skills and experiences to potential employers. Tailoring your CV to each job, keeping it updated, and having it reviewed by your careers team can significantly enhance your job prospects. Even if a CV isn’t required for an application, it’s still a valuable document to have!

Types of CVs

• Chronological: lists work experience in order, suitable for most job applications.
• Skills-based: highlights relevant skills, ideal for those with less work experience.
• Academic: focuses on academic achievements, research, and teaching experience.
• Creative: used in design and marketing industries.
• Specific roles: for legal roles or positions in teaching you may have to adopt a unique style of writing or editing that highlights certain aspects of your professional and academic experience.

Check out Prospect's CV guidance to explore different types of CV.

Top tips for your CV

• Regularly update your CV and LinkedIn profile.
• Tailor your CV for each job application.
• Use a simple format with one or two fonts.
• Use short, punchy bullet points for maximum impact. Try the Power Verbs Generator on CareerHub+.
• Proofread to ensure accuracy.

Find out more by watching CV information videos and read interesting CV articles on CareerHub+.

Applicant tracking systems (ATS)

Many large organisations use applicant tracking systems (ATS) as part of their screening process. Ensure your CV gets past this stage by following our top tips.

• Use keywords from the job description.
• Avoid images and custom fonts; use a standard format.
• Submit your CV as a Word document, not a PDF.

Try using our free CV feedback tool to optimise your CV for ATS software. Upload your current CV to get instant, detailed feedback.

International CVs

Be aware of different country requirements, such as the inclusion of photographs or reference details. To navigate international CVs there are plenty of resources online offering advice such as Goinglobal.

Further support

• Careers Information Drop-in: bring along your CV to one of the drop-in sessions for instant feedback.
• Careers support: book a one-to-one appointment to speak about tailoring your CV

See times of our drop in and book appointments via CareerHub.