In today’s competitive job market, your CV needs to stand out from the crowd. Whether you’re applying for your first job, changing careers, or aiming for a senior position, a strong, well-structured CV can make all the difference. This guide will walk you through the best CV hacks, resume writing tips, and formatting tricks to help you craft a winning application that grabs recruiters’ attention.
Jump to:
- Tailoring your CV to every job
- Making your resume stand out with customisation
- Keeping it short
- Quick formatting tips
- Using a clean, modern format
- Best formatting tips
- Focusing on achievements
- Improving your CV with stronger content
- Optimising your CV for ATS
- How to write an ATS-optimised resume
- Writing a compelling personal statement
- Example of a strong summary
- Showcasing key skills
- Top suggestions for the skills section
- Proofreading
- Editing tips
- Contact information
- Updating your resume regularly
- Conclusion
1. Tailor your CV to every job - customisation is key
One of the most effective CV writing tips is to avoid sending the same CV to every employer. Instead, tweak your resume for each role by mirroring keywords from the job description.
How to make your resume stand out with customisation
✔ Analyse the job advert and highlight essential skills.
✔ Adjust your CV summary, work experience, and skills section accordingly.
✔ Use industry-specific terminology to boost your chances in ATS-friendly CVs.
Sick of getting ghosted by recruiters?
Join our free online CV Masterclass and find out how to get past the algorithms
Join our free online CV Masterclass2. Keep it short - the best resume length for maximum impact
Recruiters scan CVs in seconds, so concise formatting is crucial. Professional resume advice suggests keeping your CV to 1–2 pages, with a clear structure that highlights your best achievements upfront.
Quick resume formatting tips
✔ Use bullet points to present key responsibilities and achievements.
✔ Keep paragraphs short and remove irrelevant or outdated jobs.
✔ Avoid excessive personal details like full address or marital status.
3. Use a clean, modern, resume format
A cluttered CV can hurt your chances, no matter how impressive your experience is. A well-organised, visually appealing layout makes your CV easy to read and increases recruiter engagement.
Best CV formatting tips for 2025
✔ Use clear section headings (H1, H2, H3) for structure.
✔ Stick to a simple font like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
✔ Avoid excessive colours, tables, or graphics that may confuse ATS systems.
4. Focus on achievements, not just job duties
Recruiters want to know what you’ve accomplished, not just what you were responsible for. A resume that stands out highlights achievements and quantifiable results.
How to improve your resume with stronger content
❌ “Managed a sales team.”
✅ “Led a sales team of 10, increasing revenue by 25% in six months.”
✔ Include metrics to showcase impact (e.g., revenue growth, cost savings).
✔ Highlight awards, promotions, or special recognitions.
✔ Use action verbs like “implemented,” “streamlined,” and “achieved.”
5. Optimise your CV for ATS - get past the resume filters
Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter CVs before a recruiter even sees them. The key to getting through this digital gatekeeper is using ATS-friendly resume tips.
How to write an ATS-optimised resume
✔ Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description.
✔ Avoid complex formatting (e.g., fancy fonts, columns, or graphics).
✔ Use a Word document or PDF to ensure proper parsing.
6. Write a compelling personal statement - first impressions count
Your CV summary is the first thing recruiters see, so make it impactful, engaging, and relevant. This section should briefly explain who you are, what you offer, and what you’re looking for.
Example of a strong resume summary
❌ “Experienced marketing professional looking for a job.”
✅ “Creative digital marketer with 5+ years of experience in SEO, social media, and content strategy. Proven ability to increase engagement by 40% through data-driven campaigns.”
✔ Keep it 3–5 sentences long.
✔ Tailor it to the specific role you’re applying for.
✔ Use power words that highlight your expertise and experience.
7. Showcase key skills in a dedicated section
A well-structured CV includes a separate skills section that highlights both hard skills (technical expertise) and soft skills (communication, leadership, teamwork).
Top resume suggestions for the skills section
✔ List 5–10 key skills tailored to the role.
✔ Use bullet points for clarity.
✔ Ensure your skills align with job description keywords for better ATS ranking.
Example:
📌 Hard skills: Project management, Python programming, SEO strategy.
📌 Soft skills: Leadership, problem-solving, time management.
8. Proofread to avoid costly mistakes - perfect spelling & grammar matter
A resume filled with typos or poor grammar can instantly ruin your chances. Hiring managers expect a polished CV, so take the time to review it thoroughly.
Quick resume editing tips
✔ Use Grammarly or Microsoft Word’s spell check.
✔ Read your CV out loud to catch awkward phrasing.
✔ Ask a friend, mentor, or professional CV writer to review it.
9. Use a professional email address & updated contact info
A small but crucial CV tip—always use a professional email address and ensure your contact details are up to date.
Key resume pointers for contact information
✔ Use a clean, simple email address (e.g., [email protected]).
✔ Ensure your LinkedIn profile is active and aligns with your CV.
✔ Include your phone number and city (but no need for a full address).
What about the cover letter?
Watch our short video on how to write a SUPER personalised cover letter
Upgrade your cover letter10. Regularly update your resume - stay ready for new opportunities
Even if you’re not actively job hunting, keeping your CV up to date ensures you don’t forget key achievements or experiences.
How to improve your resume over time
✔ Refresh your CV every 6 months with new skills, projects, or job changes.
✔ Keep your LinkedIn profile and resume consistent.
✔ Add any recent courses, certifications, or professional development.
Join the ivee community!
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Final thoughts – your CV is your personal brand
Your CV is your first impression, and a strong, well-structured resume increases your chances of landing interviews. By following these top CV tips, resume hacks, and professional formatting suggestions, you’ll be in a much better position to succeed.
💡 Need free resume advice or a CV template? Check out our resources and expert guides to craft a resume that stands out!
👉 Have questions about CV formatting tips, ATS-friendly resumes, or job applications? Contact us at [email protected], and we’ll help you out!
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