Whether you're re-entering the workforce after a career break or seeking new opportunities, crafting a compelling CV is crucial. This guide provides a comprehensive CV template tailored for UK-based professionals, with a focus on addressing career gaps and showcasing transferable skills.
With CV tips from recruitment experts
Why your CV matters when returning to work
Your CV serves as your professional introduction, highlighting your skills, experiences, and potential to employers. For individuals returning after a hiatus, it’s essential to address employment gaps and emphasise the value you’ve gained during your time away.
Check out some of the common challenges:
Career gaps
Periods away from formal employment can raise questions for employers.
Skill relevance
Demonstrating that your skills remain pertinent and up-to-date.
Modern hiring practices
Ensuring your CV is compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) used by many employers.
By proactively tailoring your CV, you can turn potential challenges into strengths.
The perfect CV template: section by section
Contact information to include:
Pro tip: Indicate your location as “[City], UK” without providing your full address.
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Access resourcesProfessional summary example
Craft a concise statement (2-3 sentences) that encapsulates your experience and career objectives.
Example:
“Experienced marketing professional with over 8 years in content strategy and digital campaigns. After a planned career break to focus on family, I am now eager to leverage my expertise to drive impactful marketing initiatives.”
Examples of key skills
Highlight skills relevant to the desired role:
Pro tip: Align your skills with keywords from the job description to enhance ATS compatibility.
Professional experience example
List your work history in reverse chronological order. Address any career gaps transparently:
Example:
Career Break
Full-Time Parent and Volunteer
June 2020 – December 2023
- Managed household schedules, budgeting, and logistics, honing organisational and multitasking skills.
- Volunteered as an event coordinator for [Local Charity], leading a team to successfully raise £10,000 through community events.
Pro tip: presenting your career break in this manner demonstrates proactive engagement and skill development during your time away.
Education and certifications example
Include:
- Degrees, institutions, and graduation years
- Relevant certifications (e.g., PRINCE2, Google Analytics)
Example:
- Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, University of Birmingham, 2010
- Digital Marketing Certification, Google Digital Garage, 2023
Add sections that provide a fuller picture of you as a candidate:
Additional information example
Languages:
- Fluent in Spanish and French
Professional development:
- Completed courses in data analysis and project management during career break
Volunteer work:
- Active member of [Community Organisation], leading initiatives to support local businesses
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Top CV tips for returning professionals
Address career gaps confidently
Be open about your career break, framing it as a period of growth.
Example:
“Took a two-year career break to care for a family member, during which I developed strong organisational and time management skills.”
Pro tip: Honesty about your career gap, coupled with a focus on the skills gained during this period, can positively influence employers’ perceptions.
Tailor your CV for each application
Customise your CV to align with the specific requirements of each role.
Pro tip: you can use AI to help you analyse the job description and alter your CV
Maintain a professional and modern format
Ensure your CV is clean and easy to read.
Font:
Use professional fonts like Arial or Calibri.
Length:
Aim for no more than two A4 pages.
File format:
Save and submit your CV as a PDF to preserve formatting.
With CV tips from recruitment experts
Example CV:
Why a hybrid CV is perfect for returning professionals:
What you see to the left is a hybrid CV, which combines the best elements of a traditional chronological CV and a skills-based CV, making it an excellent choice for professionals returning to work. Instead of focusing solely on dates and job titles, this format allows you to highlight your most relevant skills and achievements upfront, followed by a concise work history.
Why it works:
- Showcases transferable skills: If you’ve gained valuable skills during a career break (e.g., project management, problem-solving, or volunteering), a hybrid CV lets you prioritise them.
- Minimises career gaps: By focusing on skills and accomplishments rather than employment timelines, gaps in your work history become less prominent.
- Customisable for roles: You can tailor the skills section to match the job description, ensuring recruiters see your suitability immediately.
For example, if you’re applying for a marketing role, your hybrid CV can feature a “Digital Marketing Expertise” section with specific achievements, followed by a simplified work history, making it ideal for re-entering the job market confidently.
FAQs about returning to work and CV writing
Join the ivee community!
Join our Facebook group. Whether you’re looking to reconnect with like-minded returners, seek advice on returning to work after maternity leave, or share your experiences, our Facebook community is here to help you navigate your journey back into the workforce.
You’ll find:
👉 Latest regulatory changes regarding maternity leave
👉 CV templates for women returning to work
👉 Latest industry updates
👉 Resources and guides to help you on your job hunt
👉 Confidence-building events, webinars and advice on all aspects of returning to work
Our Facebook community
Conclusion
Returning to the workforce is a significant step, and with a well-crafted CV, you’re well-positioned for success. Leverage this guide to highlight your strengths, address any gaps confidently, and present yourself as a compelling candidate.
Got through to the next stage? Find out how to talk about your career break in an interview
Need additional support? Explore ivee’s Return-to-Work Bootcamp for personalised assistance, including CV reviews and interview preparation tailored for returners.
Need additional support?
Explore our Return-to-Work Bootcamp for personalised assistance, including CV reviews and interview preparation tailored for returners.
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