Prioritize readability
An applicant tracking system may extract CV text to help recruiters organize applications. Complex tables, decorative text boxes and unusual layouts can make extraction harder in some systems. A clean document with recognizable headings is generally easier for both software and people to read.
Use familiar headings
Clearly identify your contact details, professional summary, work experience, education, certifications and relevant skills. Place your job title, employer and employment dates consistently. Use a straightforward chronological structure unless you have a strong reason to use another format.
Explain your work with evidence
A responsibility tells the reader what you were expected to do. A stronger description also explains what you did, how you approached it and the result where you can substantiate one. For example, rather than writing only “Responsible for maintenance,” describe the equipment or team you coordinated and the reliability or planning activities you led. Avoid inventing percentages or results.
Tailor relevance without copying
Read the vacancy requirements and identify the skills you genuinely possess. Use the employer's terminology where it accurately describes your work, but do not fill the document with repeated keywords or qualifications you cannot demonstrate.
Check the final file
Use a standard font and consistent date format. Verify spelling and contact information. When possible, inspect how the final PDF or document extracts into plain text and follow the employer's file-type instructions.
Before submitting
- Is the most relevant experience easy to find?
- Are all claims accurate and supported?
- Are sections logically organized?
- Does the CV match the actual role without misleading wording?
- Are the file format and contact details correct?