A well-crafted CV is more than just a list of your past jobs — it’s your personal marketing document. Whether you’re applying for your first job, switching careers, or aiming for that dream position, your CV (Curriculum Vitae) needs to communicate your value clearly and professionally. But what exactly makes a CV complete?
Here are the key elements every strong CV should include:
1. Contact Information
At the very top, make it easy for recruiters to reach you.
Include:
- Full Name
- Phone Number
- Professional Email Address
- LinkedIn profile (optional but recommended)
- Portfolio or website (for creative or tech roles)
2. Professional Summary or Objective
This short section (2–3 lines) should highlight who you are, what you do, and what you’re looking for. Think of it as your elevator pitch.
Example:
“Creative graphic designer with 5+ years of experience in branding and digital design. Passionate about translating ideas into compelling visuals. Looking to bring fresh design thinking to a dynamic team.”
3. Work Experience
This is often the heart of your CV. List your jobs in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent.
For each role:
- Job title
- Company name
- Location
- Dates of employment
- 3–5 bullet points describing your achievements and responsibilities (use action verbs and quantify when possible)
Tip: Focus on results, not just tasks. “Increased social media engagement by 40% in 6 months” is more powerful than “Managed Instagram account.”
4. Education
List your academic background with:
- Degree or qualification
- Institution name
- Graduation date
- Honors, distinctions, or relevant coursework (if applicable)
5. Skills
Highlight key skills that match the job description. These can be:
- Technical (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Python, SEO)
- Soft skills (e.g., teamwork, communication, leadership)
Tip: Customize your skills section for each job you apply to.
6. Certifications & Training
If you’ve taken any relevant courses, workshops, or certifications (online or offline), list them here. This shows continuous learning and growth.
7. Projects or Portfolio Highlights (especially for creatives and tech professionals)
Showcase major projects you’ve worked on, especially those that align with the job you’re applying for. Briefly describe the project, your role, and the outcome.
8. Languages
If you speak multiple languages fluently, add them! This is especially valuable in international companies or regions with diverse populations.
9. References
You can include 1–2 references or simply write “References available upon request.” Only list people who’ve agreed to vouch for you.
Bonus Tips:
- Keep your CV to 1–2 pages.
- Use a clean, readable design and font.
- Tailor your CV to the job — one size doesn’t fit all.
- Avoid spelling and grammar mistakes. Proofread carefully!
Conclusion
Your CV should tell a clear and compelling story of your career. When all the key elements are in place, you make it easier for recruiters to see why you’re the right fit — and increase your chances of landing that interview.