how to write an unforgettable CV.

So, you’re looking for a new role? Or you would be, except you need to update your CV… And somehow, the idea of sitting down to write this short, yet crucial document feels more than a little overwhelming.

Never fear. Here at mum, we support you through your candidate journey – from making the intros that matter, to bagging your dream role. Read on for our top tips on how to write a CV that’ll get you noticed for all the right reasons.

1. start with a strong introduction.

Think of your introduction paragraph – known as an executive summary – as a personal brand statement that explains what makes you a standout candidate and why you’re perfect for this particular role (more on this next). Directly reference the job description to highlight your relevant skills and experience, including relevant past accomplishments. To make it unforgettable, inject a bit of personality and demonstrate your attitude with a brief overview of your management and leadership style.

2. tailor your CV for the role.

One size does not fit all when it comes to CVs, so don’t go submitting an identical version for every role. Instead, tailor your CV for each position by carefully reading the job description and emphasising the skills and experience they’re asking for. Incorporating key words from the job description shows you’ve given your application thought and care, while directly linking yourself to the employer’s needs, without the hiring manager having to work hard or read between the lines.

3. showcase successes (not just responsibilities).

We all know managers and executives are judged on their accomplishments and performance against KPIs so, rather than simply listing your responsibilities in past roles, focus on quantifiable achievements. Include data (like metrics and percentages) demonstrating revenue growth, cost savings, improvements in efficiency – or whatever’s most relevant to the role you’re applying for – to provide tangible evidence of your professional impact and potential.

4. demonstrate progression and development.

Showcase a clear, chronological – always starting with your most recent role and working backwards – overview of your career progression, using a bold or different font for job titles and dates to highlight promotions, milestones, and significant transitions in your career at a glance. Also, by including relevant certifications, workshops, or advanced degrees that enhance your skills.

5. give evidence of leadership and teamwork.

If you’re applying for a managerial or executive role, the chances are you’ll be expected to lead people. So don’t leave the hiring manager guessing: clearly articulate your leadership style and include examples of when you’ve successfully led teams, implemented strategic initiatives, or driven positive organisational change. Since teamwork is crucial for effective leadership, you should also demonstrate your ability to collaborate with diverse teams and stakeholders.

6. proactively address employment gaps.

There’s no need to be worried about gaps in your employment, as long as you’re upfront about them. Whatever the reason for your hiatus – be it parenthood, education, travelling, illness, redundancy, or anything else – the most important thing is to directly address that period on your CV (as you would a job) and explain how you used the time for personal or professional development. This demonstrates openness, honesty, self-awareness and a commitment to growth.

7. include testimonials and endorsements.

We all know we’ll be asked for references at some point in the job-interview process, so why not make the hiring manager’s life easier and include external validation of your skills, experience and attitude upfront? Add a personal touch to you CV with brief quotes from colleagues, supervisors, or clients – remembering (as always) to tailor them to the job you’re applying for, and to get permission from the writer before you share their endorsement.

8. use dynamic ‘doing’ words for impact.

Lots of people accidentally switch into passive voice when writing a CV – this not only makes you sound less human and relatable, it also takes away from your ownership of the achievement. For example, switch: “an ambitious target was met” to: “I met an ambitious target” to show you were instrumental. Also, dynamic (rather than generic) verbs like "orchestrated," "implemented," or "pioneered” capture your reader’s attention and emphasise your impact.

9. remember: presentation matters.

When considering your CV design, think about how the company you’re applying to presents itself. Is their brand formal and polished? Informal and fun? Choose a layout, fonts and colours that aligns with their style to instantly create synergy with you as a candidate. But always opt for something clean and professional with consistent formatting, strategic headers and bullet points that make the information easy to absorb quickly. And always, always save it as a PDF! 

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