How to write an effective CV
When you apply for a job, you may need to send a CV and a cover letter. These are often the first things an employer sees about you.
Your CV should not just inform - it should impress. Think of it as your personal sales brochure.
The aim of your CV is to get you through the first stage of recruitment and secure an interview. Many CVs fail because they do not give employers the information they need. They may have too little detail, too much detail, or be structured in a way that makes it hard to find key information.
This guide shows what a CV should look like and helps you avoid common mistakes. You’ll also find links to examples and templates you can download.
First impressions matter
Employers judge your CV before they read a word.
Avoid:
- heavy use of italics
- too many bullet points
- fancy fonts or very small text
- coloured paper or graphics
Stick to:
- plain white paper
- no photos (unless applying for modelling or acting jobs)
- a clear font like Arial or Times New Roman
- consistent font use
Make sure your sections are clear and use bold headings so information is easy to find.
Do not exceed 2 pages. If your CV is too long, employers may not read it.
Page last updated: 25 November 2025