Tips for Writing a CV for Job Applications in English
Introduction
In today’s competitive job market, your CV is often the first impression you make — especially when applying internationally or in English-speaking environments. For non-native English speakers and fresh graduates, writing a CV in English can be a challenge. But don’t worry: with a clear format, the right tone, and smart structure, you can write a professional CV that highlights your strengths and lands interviews.
In this article, you’ll find step-by-step CV writing tips in English to help you apply confidently for jobs in 2025, even if you don’t have much experience.
1. Start with a Strong Structure
Recruiters don’t have time to read through cluttered or confusing CVs. A clear format makes it easy for them to scan your information quickly.
Recommended CV format in English:
| Section | What to Include |
|---|---|
| Contact Information | Full name, email, phone, LinkedIn (optional), city or country |
| Personal Profile | A short summary of your skills, goals, and value as a candidate |
| Education | Your degrees, schools attended, graduation years |
| Work Experience | Jobs, internships, or volunteer work with achievements (if available) |
| Skills | Languages, computer skills, technical tools, soft skills |
| Certifications | Any relevant training or certifications |
| References | Optional; you can write “Available upon request” |
Pro Tip: Use bullet points instead of long paragraphs under each job or section.
2. Write a Clear and Professional Personal Statement
Your personal statement or career objective is your introduction. This section should be 2–3 sentences and summarize:
- Who you are professionally
- What type of role you’re looking for
- A few key strengths that make you a good candidate
Example:
“I am a motivated Business Administration graduate with strong communication and problem-solving skills. I’m seeking an entry-level role in customer support where I can apply my organizational and teamwork abilities.”
3. Highlight Relevant Skills and Projects
Even if you have no job experience, you can still make your CV shine by focusing on:
- School projects or group assignments
- Volunteering
- Freelance work
- Online courses or certifications
- Soft skills like leadership, time management, and communication
Example:
Led a 4-person group in a final-year project focused on digital marketing strategies, resulting in a top grade.
4. Use Keywords from the Job Description
Most employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan CVs for relevant keywords. Read the job posting carefully and include keywords related to the skills, tools, and qualifications they ask for.
Common CV keywords:
- Team player
- Time management
- Microsoft Office
- Customer service
- Remote collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Adaptability
Pro Tip: Make sure your wording sounds natural. Don’t overstuff keywords.
5. Keep Your Language Simple and Formal
You don’t need to use big words or complicated grammar. In fact, keeping your English simple, clear, and professional is more effective.
- Use action verbs (e.g., managed, created, led, supported, organized)
- Avoid slang or informal phrases
- Stick to neutral, formal tone throughout
Example:
Instead of: “I was kind of helping the manager with stuff.”
Write: “Assisted the store manager with daily operations, including inventory checks and customer service.”
6. Tailor Your CV for Each Application
A generic CV won’t get results. For better success:
- Adjust your personal statement for each job
- Emphasize the most relevant skills and experience
- Change the order of bullet points based on the job requirements
It takes extra time — but it can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed.
7. Use a Clean and Modern Template
Your CV should look professional and be easy to read on a screen or print. Choose a modern CV template with:
- A clean font (e.g., Arial, Calibri, or Helvetica)
- Bold section titles
- Clear spacing and margins
- A maximum of 1–2 pages
Tools to create a CV online:
- Canva
- Zety
- Resume.io
- Microsoft Word templates
- Google Docs resume templates
8. Double-Check Grammar and Spelling
Errors in grammar or spelling create a bad impression, especially when writing in English. Always
- Use a spell-check tool
- Ask a friend to proofread
- Read your CV out loud to catch awkward sentences
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Confusing “their” and “there”
- Writing dates inconsistently
- Capitalizing random words
- Using casual phrases
9. Save and Send the CV in the Right Format
Most recruiters prefer CVs in PDF format because it preserves the layout. Name your file professionally:
Correct: FirstName_LastName_CV.pdf
Avoid: MyCV2023FinalFINAL.docx
Only send Word documents if the job listing specifically asks for it.
10. Add a Short Cover Letter (Optional but Useful)
Even if not required, a short cover letter shows extra effort. You can explain:
- Why you’re interested in the role
- What you bring to the team
- A few highlights from your CV
Keep it short — 3 short paragraphs is enough.
Conclusion
Writing a CV in English — especially with little or no experience — may seem difficult at first. But with the right format, strong content, and attention to detail, you can craft a professional document that opens doors.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to write a CV that highlights your strengths, communicates your goals clearly, and gives you a real chance at landing the job you want. Keep refining, stay confident, and remember: your first opportunity might be just one good CV away.
Check also: The Difference Between Resume and CV Explained Simply
