How to Write a CV That Gets You Hired

In today's highly competitive job market, a well-crafted CV can be your most powerful asset. It has the potential to elevate you above the competition and land you your dream job.

Having a really good and carefully written CV is like having a special ability when you're looking for a job. While most people take regular steps to get hired, you stand out and move up quickly, almost like a superhero. This guide explains the most important things you need to make an amazing CV like that.

Quick Tips

Selecting the Ideal Platform for Resume Creation: Avoid using basic text editors such as MS Word and Excel; instead, utilize online builders for consistent formatting.

Emphasizing Visual Appeal and Templates: The aesthetics of your resume matter significantly; employ professional designs and templates to leave a memorable impression.

Understanding Resume Formats: Familiarize yourself with the three primary resume formats - Reverse Chronological, Functional, and Combined - in order to structure your resume effectively.

Tailoring Resume Sections: Determine which sections are necessary and optional, and customize your resume to align with the specific job you are applying for.

Crafting a Compelling Professional Summary: Infuse personality into your resume with a concise, energetic summary that highlights your qualifications.

Showcasing Work Experience: Present your accomplishments in a reverse chronological format, placing emphasis on relevant roles and achievements.

Highlighting Skills: Dedicate a section to showcasing your competencies, aligning them with the requirements outlined in the job description.

Addressing Education: Prioritize the education section based on its relevance to the job and the industry.

Optimizing for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and Recruiter Preferences: Ensure that your resume is ATS-friendly and tailored to the specific preferences of the company you are targeting.

Considering the Inclusion of References: Decide whether to include references based on job requirements and their relevance to your application.

A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is your detailed professional biography. Unlike a resume, a CV focuses on your academic achievements, research, career experience, and qualifications. Whether you're applying for a PhD, a government job, or a teaching role, knowing how to write a CV is the first step to standing out. At Letsmakecv, we make CV writing effortless with step-by-step guidance, smart templates, and expert-backed formatting.

Step-by-Step: How to Make a CV

1

Choose the Right Format

Pick a resume format that best highlights your skills and experience.

  • Chronological is recruiter-friendly
  • Functional for career changers

Stick with one format for clarity.

2

Use a Template

Save time and ensure proper formatting by starting with a professional template.

  • ATS-optimized designs
  • Modern & clean layouts

Don't reinvent the wheel—just customize.

3

Keep It Concise

Make your resume short and to the point.

  • Freshers: 1 page
  • Experienced: 1–2 pages

Recruiters spend ~7 seconds on each resume.

4

Photo or Not?

Decide whether to include a photo based on where you're applying.

  • Yes in EU or creative roles
  • No in US & most tech jobs

Check regional hiring norms.

CV Template Structure

Name & Contact Information
Personal Statement / Objective
Education
Work Experience
Research / Publications
Certifications & Awards
Skills
Languages / Volunteer Work / Additional Info

Pro Tips for Writing a CV

✅ Tailor your CV to every job or institution
✅ Avoid long paragraphs – use bullet points
✅ Stick to clear, professional fonts
✅ Don't exaggerate – be factual and concise
✅ Keep it updated and spell-checked
✅ Include dates for all achievements

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Create Your Professional CV?

Choose from our professionally designed templates and create a CV that stands out to employers.