Your CV is the single most important document when searching for a new job. It does not matter how long it takes to write, the person reading it will take about 5 seconds to form an opinion as well as grab the attention of potential employers, your CV will have to impress them too. You will have to show that you have the necessary skills and competencies to do the job. Is a lot to ask but all it takes is a few simple rules to make sure that you produce a well-presented, accurate and concise CV that will give you every opportunity to secure an interview.

CV is the key to get an interview

If you have sent hundreds of CVs for a job application with no callbacks to show for it, it could have something to do with the quality of your CV. Here are some helpful tips on how to write a professional CV to help get your foot in the door with a prospective employer.




The first rule is to write the CV by yourself. It needs to represent you and the language you use, you will be expected to discuss your CV in an interview and a recruiter will definitely know when a CV is not your own.

1. Name & Contact Information

The best way to layout the CV is to start with the header section where write your name and contact details and put a picture with a smiling face but do not put a picture on your CV if you are not living in gulf countries like Qatar UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, etc, it’s just the requirement of employers in the Middle East. Ideally, your CV should be a maximum of two A4-sized pages never longer than but remember always to update your phone number otherwise, it would be a lost opportunity.

2. Summary or Personal Profile

The most dynamic part of your CV is this section but most people don’t put much effort into this part of the CV. Write your summary according to the job description and job requirements. Do not use a general summary or copy-paste because most employers shortlist a CV after reading the summary. The ideal CV summary length is 3 sentences but you can write up to 5 sentences but it should be concise and well written.

3. Work Experience

Your employment history comes next include job title and dates and put the most recent first. Also, include the description of your duties and your responsibilities include precise details. These will make your skills tangible. If If you don’t have past work experience then you can mention the volunteer work you have done in the past but remember always to tailor your CV to the job description.

4. Education & Qualifications

Then come your education and qualifications, again most recent first start with your most relevant and professional qualifications for the job. Write the full title of your degree and a summary of subjects and grades. These are followed by relevant training that comes in a separate section. The interest and hobbies sections should not be underestimated. keep away from boring cliches and show hobbies that can demonstrate a range of skills relevant to the job or transferable to the workplace setting.

5. Professional Skills

A good CV will highlight all your skills that are relevant to the job especially if you don’t have enough qualifications and job experience. You must mention communication skills, no matter which job you are applying but you can also mention some other skills employers are looking for like,




Analytical skills, Computer skills, Interpersonal skills, Decision-Making skills, Organizational skills, Time Management skills, Microsoft Office skills, etc.

6. Get the language right

When outlining your responsibilities and skills in your CV, the use of positive language can have a huge impact on determining your chances of obtaining an interview. Using words such as performed, collaborated, specialized and dedicated oozes confidence, your capability of working within a team, and it will indicate that you have a strong understanding of the roles you have previously performed.

Last but not least, make sure to always keep your CV updated, this will prepare you for any future job applications.