How to Write a Professional CV in 2026

Hiring has changed. Many employers use applicant tracking systems and recruiters often scan quickly, so your CV needs to be clear, targeted and easy to read.

Step 1: Pick a clean, simple format

Use a single-column layout with standard headings like Experience, Education and Skills. Avoid tables, text boxes and images in the main body because they can confuse ATS software.

Step 2: Add accurate contact details

Include your name, phone number, professional email, city and LinkedIn URL. A portfolio link is useful for technical and creative roles.

Step 3: Write a strong summary

In two or three lines, say who you are, what you are good at and what you want. Tailor it to the job.

Step 4: Present experience with results

List jobs in reverse-chronological order with job title, company, location and dates. Under each, use bullet points that start with action verbs and show outcomes.

• Managed a team of 8 support agents and improved customer satisfaction scores
• Launched a referral campaign that brought in 300 new customers in three months
• Reduced reporting time by automating weekly spreadsheets

Step 5: List relevant skills

Select skills that match the job description. Mix technical abilities and soft skills, and use the same terms the employer uses.

Step 6: Add education and certifications

Include your degree, institution and graduation year. Add certifications and training that support the role.

Step 7: Tailor and proofread

Adjust your CV for each application by reordering bullets, adding keywords and trimming irrelevant content. Then check for typos, inconsistent dates and formatting problems.

Step 8: Save in the right file type

Send a PDF unless the employer requests Word. Name the file clearly, for example Sara-Ahmed-CV.pdf.

A quick checklist

• One to two pages
• Consistent fonts and spacing
• Measurable achievements
• No personal details that are not needed, such as age or marital status in countries where this is not expected
• Links that work