Mastering these basics will help you rise to the top

Want to capture a hiring manager's attention instantly? Here's the deal: first impressions still matter. That’s why mastering your CV basics is more crucial than ever, it’s no longer just a document, it’s a crucial tool to tell your personal brand story.

With over 20 years of tech recruitment experience, I’ve seen a CV or two in my time. Nine times out of ten, getting the basics right is what still sets a candidate apart from their peers. These are the non-negotiable CV basics that I see working time and time again to turn the right heads for the right roles.

1. As humans, we are naturally visually driven, so the layout of your CV will always set the initial tone and create a subliminal first impression about you. A well-formatted and designed CV is like a well-dressed professional, it commands respect and attention. Take the time to declutter unnecessary language, lead with clear headings and include only key information that can be easily scanned by hiring managers.

2. It goes without saying that your CV should always be grammatically and linguistically flawless. Errors can immediately undermine your credibility and distract from your qualifications. Proofread meticulously or enlist a second pair of eyes to ensure your CV is error-free. A typo can be the difference between a callback and a hard pass.

3. Sometimes you need to make a strong first impression with a machine—yes, I’m talking about an applicant tracking system (ATS). Incorporating relevant keywords across your CV related to your industry and the role you’re applying for will work more in your favour than you realise. This strategy helps you overcome automated systems that rank candidates based on keyword density and relevance, or get the attention of HR managers manually scanning CV’s for certain keywords. Think of it as SEO for your career.

4. Focus on achievements in your work experience rather than just listing basic job functions—a common trap. Instead describe how you made a difference in your previous roles. Did you streamline processes, save time, increase revenue or improve productivity? Quantify your achievements whenever possible to provide concrete evidence of your impact. Paint a picture of success with tangible numbers and stories.

5. For technical roles, provide links to your websites, projects or profiles on repositories like GitHub or Stack Overflow. Highlight recent projects you’ve built or contributed to, ensuring they are up-to-date and clearly dated. This demonstrates your ongoing commitment to building your skills and that you’re an active contributing member of the tech community. 

6. Be mindful of your personal and professional reputation - both on and offline. Hiring managers will stalk your social media profiles so make sure your digital presence supports your professional brand. Engage in meaningful discussions, share relevant content and maintain a respectful tone; it shows that you’re the real deal both on and offline. 

7. One I’m most passionate about is ensuring your career choices reflect strategic thinking. Highlighting your pursuit of challenging and impactful roles makes you an attractive candidate to top-tier companies. Upward mobility and thoughtful career decisions underscore your ambition and dedication, it shows that every career move has been a considered step up, and not just a comfortable step sideways.

8. Don’t overlook personal hobbies and achievements. Move away from listing the basics like ‘reading, cycling and cooking,’ and instead share a more personalised take on something you’re truly passionate about and you’ve worked hard to earn. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner attempting to take on the Comrades, an active volunteer for a charity close to your heart, or a touring member of a live band. Sharing these interests adds depth to your personal story and gives insight into personal qualities that extend beyond professional skills and experience.

Mastering these basics not only grabs the attention of hiring managers but also leaves a lasting, positive impression. Your CV is your story—make it compelling.

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