CV templates and tips: The complete guide for jobseekers

by Amber Rolfe

Struggling with your CV? We can help with that…

Whether you’re new to jobseeking, or you’ve been in the working world for a while – creating and maintaining a good CV can be tough. And if you’re short on time (and/or patience), you don’t know where to start, or you’re not sure what recruiters really want – it can seem like an impossible task.

To make sure your CV is up to scratch, here are our best tips and templates:

Introduction to CVs and why they matter

What is a CV?

A CV (curriculum vitae) is a document that outlines your skills, qualifications, and experience. It’s often the first impression an employer has of you – so it’s important to get it right.

Why does a good CV layout matter?

Recruiters are busy. With dozens (or even hundreds) of applications to review, they typically spend just seconds scanning each CV. A well-structured, clearly written CV helps you stand out – and boosts your chances of being shortlisted.

How do recruiters use your CV?

Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter CVs before a human even reads them. These systems scan for keywords, relevant experience, and qualifications. That means formatting, layout, and the words you use can make a real difference.

Types of CV templates and when to use them

Not sure where to start? CV templates are a great way to simplify the process. 

We’ve created a range of free, downloadable templates tailored to different career stages and job types.

Basic CV template

A flexible, all-purpose CV that works well across a wide range of industries and experience levels. Ideal if you’re not sure which template to start with. 

Graduate CV template

Designed for university leavers with limited experience, this template highlights your degree, transferable skills, and any internships or part-time roles.

School leaver CV template

Ideal for those entering the job market after school. It focuses on soft skills, coursework, extracurriculars, and personal achievements.

Career change CV template

Thinking about switching sectors? This template helps you highlight transferable skills and relevant qualifications to support your transition.

Career break CV template

Whether your break was for travel, study, parenting or health, this template allows you to explain the gap and focus on what you’ve gained from the time off.

Part-time CV template

If you’re applying for short-term, part-time or temp roles, these CVs highlight flexibility, availability and a wide range of experience.

Skills-based CV template

For those with gaps in employment or varied job history, this format focuses on core skills rather than specific job roles.

Redundancy CV template

If you’ve recently been made redundant, this template helps you present your experience confidently and proactively – with an emphasis on achievements.

Temp CV template

If you’re applying for short-term or temporary roles, this CV highlights your flexibility, availability, and ability to adapt quickly.

How to choose the right CV template for your situation

Choosing the right template depends on your experience, the job you’re applying for, and the message you want to convey. 

• School leavers and graduates: Start with templates that showcase education, soft skills and any part-time experience. Try the school leaver CV template or the graduate CV template.
• Mid-career professionals: A standard, chronological layout works well to highlight career progression and achievements. Try the basic CV template or the redundancy CV template if applicable.
• Career changers or those with gaps in their CVs: Choose a format that focuses on transferable skills or explains career breaks effectively. Try the career change CV template, skills-based CV template, or career break CV template.
• Temp, part-time, or flexible workers: Use a CV that emphasises availability, adaptability, and broad experience. Try the part-time and temp CV template.
• Senior professionals or executives: A clear, streamlined template that puts leadership, results and strategy front and centre will work best. The  basic CV template can help present your experience effectively.

It’s also important to tailor your CV to the industry you’re applying for work in. For example, creative sectors (like design or media) might appreciate a more visual layout, while formal industries (such as law or finance) prefer simple, traditional designs.

Writing an effective CV: A step-by-step guide

Now that you’ve chosen your template, it’s time to fill it in with content.

1. Personal details and contact info

Include your name, phone number, professional email address, and a rough location (e.g. ‘Manchester-based’). You don’t need to add your full address, date of birth or a photo.

2. Writing your personal statement

This short paragraph (at the top of your CV) summarises who you are, what you offer, and what you’re looking for.

How to write a personal statement for job applications

3. Presenting your work experience

List roles in reverse chronological order. Include job title, company name, and dates – followed by bullet points outlining key responsibilities and achievements. Start each point with an active verb (e.g. delivered, created, supported).

How to: Get work experience

4. Highlighting skills and achievements

Include a section that lists key hard and soft skills relevant to the job, such as digital marketing, time management, SQL and Excel, and problem solving.

Five CV skills employers look for in every jobseeker

5. Education and qualifications

List your qualifications starting with the most recent. You can also include key modules, dissertation titles, or relevant coursework.

Which parts of my education should I include in my CV?

6. Optional extras

• Hobbies and interests: Add if they demonstrate relevant qualities (e.g. team sports, volunteering).
• References: You can say ‘Available on request’ unless asked to include them.

How to write a CV

Take our free CV Writing Masterclass

How to help recruiters find your CV

Even the best CV won’t get you a job if no one sees it. Here’s how to improve your visibility:

Optimise your CV for applicant tracking systems (ATS)

Many employers use applicant tracking software to filter CVs before they’re reviewed by a person. To ensure yours makes it through:

• Use clear, standard section headings (e.g. Work experience, Education, Skills)
• Avoid graphics, tables, columns, images, logos or text boxes
• Use a straightforward layout with no unusual formatting
• Stick to standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman
• Save your CV as a .docx or .pdf (check the job description for preferences)
• Don’t put important information in headers or footers (ATS may not read these)
• Spell out acronyms at least once (e.g. ‘Customer Relationship Management (CRM)’)
• Avoid keyword stuffing—but do include relevant keywords from the job description naturally

Use the right keywords

Recruiters often search CV databases using specific keywords. Including a variety of relevant terms increases the chances of your CV being found.

• Think of alternative job titles and industry terminology
  Example: If you’re applying for a Marketing Executive role, also include terms like Digital Marketing, Campaign Coordinator, or Brand Assistant
• Use both the long-form and abbreviation for key terms (e.g. ‘Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)’)
• Focus on job-specific hard skills (e.g. JavaScript, Salesforce, content writing)

Improve your visibility in recruiter searches

If you’re not actively applying for jobs, you can still be found by recruiters who are searching for candidates online. Here’s how to boost your visibility:

• Upload your CV to trusted job sites like Reed.co.uk
• Use job title keywords as your CV heading and in your personal statement
• Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and mirrors your CV
• Include your most recent job title near the top of your CV
• Add your location and willingness to relocate (many recruiters filter by location)
• Refresh your CV regularly – even small updates can push it higher in recruiter search results

When (and how) to refresh your CV

Even if you’re not actively job hunting, it’s worth keeping your CV up to date. Not only will it save you time later, but regular updates help you stay ready for new opportunities.

Signs it’s time for a refresh

• You’ve started applying but aren’t hearing back
• You’ve gained new experience, training, or responsibilities
• It’s been over a year since you last updated your CV
• Your current CV doesn’t reflect your goals or the jobs you’re applying for

Quick ways to update your CV

• Rewrite your personal statement – tailor it to your current career aims and recent experience
• Add new achievements and responsibilities – quantify your impact where possible
• Cut what’s outdated – remove early roles or skills that are no longer relevant
• Review formatting and layout – use white space, bullet points and clear headings
• Make it look current – avoid dated fonts (like Times New Roman) or dense blocks of text

Remember, your CV should be a living document. Even if you’re not job hunting, updating it every few months means you won’t forget key achievements – and you’ll be ready to apply quickly if the right role comes up.

Four CV tips to make your application stand out

A strong CV isn’t just about what you say – it’s how you say it. Here are some tips that’ll help your CV stand out from the crowd:

1. Tailor your CV for each application

When it comes to CVs, one size definitely doesn’t fit all.

Each role you apply for will have slightly different requirements – so it’s worth adjusting your CV to reflect what the employer is looking for. Use the job description to identify the most relevant skills and experiences, and bring these to the forefront. 

That could mean rewording your personal statement, shifting the focus of your work history, or emphasising particular achievements.

Tailoring your CV: What you need to know

2. Make sure your CV passes the seven-second test

Most recruiters spend just a few seconds scanning a CV before deciding whether to read on – so first impressions count.

To stand out quickly, make sure your CV layout is clean and easy to navigate, with key information like your personal statement, skills, and recent experience near the top. Use clear headings, consistent formatting, and bullet points to make your content easy to digest at a glance.

It also helps to include relevant keywords from the job description, particularly if a recruiter is using an ATS. 

Does your CV pass the seven second test?

3. Use the STAR technique for examples

Instead of making vague claims like ‘strong communicator’ or ‘great team player,’ use the STAR technique to back up your skills with real examples. This helps employers clearly see how you’ve applied your abilities in past roles.

The STAR technique stands for:

• Situation – Set the scene. Where were you working, and what was happening?
• Task – What was your responsibility or objective?
• Action – What specific steps did you take to address the task?
• Result – What was the outcome? Try to include figures, feedback or improvements where possible

Example:

Rather than saying ‘I have good problem-solving skills,’ you could write: ‘While working in customer service at a busy retail store (Situation), I was responsible for resolving complaints at the till (Task). I introduced a new queue management system during peak times (Action), which reduced customer wait times by 30% and improved satisfaction scores (Result).’

Using this format helps your CV stand out and shows employers what you’re capable of in real-world situations.

STAR method: What you need to know

4. Avoid common CV mistakes

Even a strong CV can fall flat if it’s let down by simple errors.

Spelling and grammar mistakes are one of the quickest ways to put off a potential employer – so always double-check before you hit send. The same goes for presentation: using hard-to-read fonts (like Comic Sans) or cramming in too much text can make your CV difficult to navigate.

It’s also best to avoid overused buzzwords like ‘motivated,’ ‘passionate,’ or ‘dynamic’ unless you’re backing them up with clear examples. 

Five lines that are killing your CV

How long should a CV be?

What words should I use on my CV?

Eight CV myths: Debunked

There’s a lot of mixed advice out there about CVs, which can be confusing whether you’re just starting out or have been job hunting for a while. So, let’s clear up some of the most common myths:

1. CVs aren’t read by real people. Many think recruiters only use computer scans to read CVs. In reality, a recruiter will almost always read your CV if you apply directly. Stuffing it with keywords for machines can actually backfire and make your CV look repetitive.

2. One CV fits all jobs. Using the same CV for every role won’t cut it. Recruiters can tell when you haven’t tailored your application. Spend time adjusting your CV to fit each job—you’ll improve your chances dramatically.

3. Include every job you’ve ever had. No need to list every single role, especially if it’s not relevant. Stick to recent and applicable experience that highlights transferable skills. This keeps your CV concise and focused.

4. You don’t need a CV anymore. Social media and networking are great but not a replacement for a CV. Almost every job application still requires one, so keep yours ready and up to date.

5. Work gaps must be fully explained. You don’t have to detail every personal circumstance behind a gap in your employment. Keep your CV professional and focus on what you bring to the role. Short gaps usually won’t hold you back.

6. Hobbies and interests are essential. Only include hobbies if they add value or show skills relevant to the job. Saying you “enjoy socialising” isn’t going to impress anyone.

7. Grades are the most important factor. Early in your career, qualifications matter more. But as you gain experience, focus on your highest or most relevant qualifications instead of listing everything.

8. Typos and mistakes don’t matter much. Even small errors suggest a lack of attention to detail and can cost you an interview. Always proofread your CV carefully before submitting.

Final thoughts

Your CV doesn’t have to be complicated to make an impact. The key is keeping it clear, relevant, and tailored to each job you apply for.

Using our free templates is a great way to get started, and regularly updating your CV means you’re always ready for new opportunities.

Remember, your CV is your foot in the door – and overlooking it could cost you the job. 

Ready to get started? Download one of our CV templates now, or browse thousands of roles on Reed.co.uk.