10 Things Recruiters look for on your CV

Ben Oakley • Jun 26, 2023

Recruiters often have limited time to review each CV, so it's essential to make a strong impression quickly. 


Here are the top 10 things recruiters look for on your CV:


  1. Clear and Concise Format: A well-organized and easy-to-read format is crucial. Use clear headings, bullet points, and appropriate spacing to make your CV visually appealing and accessible.
  2. Relevant Work Experience: Recruiters want to see your relevant work experience, particularly in relation to the position you're applying for. List your previous roles, job titles, companies, and include concise descriptions of your responsibilities and achievements.
  3. Quantifiable Achievements: Highlight your accomplishments using measurable results and numbers where possible. This demonstrates your impact and adds credibility to your skills and abilities.
  4. Key Skills: Include a dedicated section highlighting your key skills that are relevant to the job. These skills should align with the requirements mentioned in the job description.
  5. Education and Qualifications: List your educational background, including degrees, certifications, or relevant courses. Include the institution, dates attended, and any notable achievements or honors.
  6. Keywords and Buzzwords: Incorporate industry-specific keywords and relevant buzzwords throughout your CV. This helps recruiters quickly identify your suitability for the position and can improve your chances of passing automated applicant tracking systems (ATS).
  7. Professional Summary/Objective: A concise and targeted professional summary or objective at the beginning of your CV can provide a quick snapshot of your qualifications and career goals. Tailor this section to align with the specific role you're applying for.
  8. Consistent Formatting: Maintain consistency in formatting throughout your CV. Use the same font type and size, headers, and bullet points. Consistency creates a visually pleasing and professional impression.
  9. Attention to Detail: Pay attention to grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Typos and errors can reflect poorly on your attention to detail and professionalism. Proofread your CV carefully and consider having someone else review it as well.
  10. Relevant Extracurricular Activities: Include relevant extracurricular activities, such as volunteering, professional associations, or leadership roles. These activities demonstrate your proactive involvement and transferable skills outside of work.


Remember, tailoring your CV to each specific job application is important. Analyse the job description and requirements and align your CV accordingly. By focusing on these key elements, you can increase the chances of capturing a recruiter's attention and progressing further in the hiring process.

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