How to write a CV that highlights your strengths

• A strong CV focuses on your skills, achievements, and experience rather than simply listing responsibilities.
• Adapting your CV to each role can help employers quickly identify why you're a suitable candidate.
• AI tools can support CV writing, but your CV should always reflect your genuine experience, skills, and career goals.

Finding the right words to describe yourself can be one of the most challenging parts of any job search.

Your CV is often the first impression you make on an employer. As such, a well-written CV can help you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of being invited to interview.

The good news is that an effective CV isn't about having the perfect career history. It's about presenting your experience, skills, and achievements in a way that clearly shows the value you can bring to a workplace.

Start by focusing on your strengths

Many people approach their CV by listing previous jobs and responsibilities. While employment history is important, employers are often more interested in the results you've achieved and the skills you've developed.

Think about what you do well. This could include communication, customer service, leadership, organisation, teamwork, problem-solving, or technical skills relevant to your field.

Your strengths may have been developed through employment, volunteering, education, caring responsibilities, community activities, or personal projects. The key is identifying the experiences that demonstrate your abilities and presenting them clearly.

A CV should help employers understand both what you've done and what you're capable of doing in the future.

Tailor your CV for every application

One of the most common mistakes jobseekers make is sending the same CV to every employer.

Before applying, carefully review the job description. Identify the skills, experience, and qualities the employer is looking for, then make sure your CV reflects those requirements where appropriate.

This doesn't mean changing your experience. It means emphasising the most relevant parts of your background for each opportunity.

For example, a customer-facing role may require strong communication skills, while an administrative role may place greater emphasis on organisation and attention to detail. Adjusting the focus of your CV can help employers quickly see why you're a strong match.

Show achievements, not just responsibilities

Employers often review hundreds of applications, so it's important to make your experience meaningful and memorable.

Instead of simply listing tasks, try to highlight achievements.

For example:

• ‘Responded to customer enquiries and resolved issues quickly.’
• ‘Supported a team of volunteers to organise community events attended by more than 50 people.’
• ‘Maintained accurate records and consistently met deadlines.’

These examples provide evidence of your contribution and help employers understand the impact of your work.

You don't need a long list of achievements. A few strong examples can be more effective than a lengthy description of every responsibility you've ever had.

Don't overlook transferable skills

If you're changing careers or have limited work experience, transferable skills can be particularly valuable.

Skills such as communication, teamwork, leadership, adaptability, and time management are relevant across many sectors and occupations.

Think about experiences you've gained through education, volunteering, hobbies, caring responsibilities or previous roles in different industries. These experiences can provide valuable evidence of your capabilities and potential.

A strong CV helps employers connect your existing strengths to the role they're trying to fill.

Using AI to support CV writing

Many jobseekers now use artificial intelligence tools such as ChatGPT and Copilot to help with CV writing.

AI can be useful for brainstorming ideas, finding keywords from job descriptions, and helping structure content. Even so, it should be used carefully.

AI-generated content can often sound generic, repetitive, or overly formal. It may also introduce inaccuracies that don't reflect your genuine skills or experience.

Employers want to understand who you are, what you've achieved, and what motivates you. The most effective CVs are authentic and tailored to the person.

If you use AI during the process, treat it as a tool to support your thinking rather than a substitute for your own knowledge and experience.

Keep it clear and easy to read

Your CV should be easy for employers to scan quickly.

Use clear headings, consistent formatting, and concise language throughout. Focus on the information most relevant to the role and avoid unnecessary detail.

Before submitting your CV, take time to proofread it carefully. Spelling mistakes, formatting issues, and outdated information can distract from an otherwise strong application.

You may also find it helpful to ask a friend or colleague to review your CV and provide feedback.

Your CV should tell your story

Every jobseeker brings a unique combination of skills, experiences, and strengths.

Rather than focusing on what you think you're missing, use your CV as a chance to show what you can offer. By highlighting your achievements, tailoring your content to the role, and presenting your strengths clearly, you can create a CV that helps employers see your potential and opens the door to new opportunities.

Looking for support with CV writing, job applications and interview preparation? Visit our Support for People section to explore the employment support available and take the next step towards your career goals.

The Growth Company

The Growth Company is an award-winning social enterprise with a 35-year history of enabling growth, creating jobs, and improving lives. We help people and businesses to develop, grow, and succeed through a range of employment, skills, and business support services. We provide employment, justice, and health services across the North of England and beyond.

Learn more about the Job Support that we offer.