Job search & applications
How to write a skills-based CV that gets read
Employers hire for skills, so it makes sense to lead with them. A good skills-based CV shows the skills the job needs and proves each one with evidence from your work.
Start with the job ad
List the skills the advertisement asks for, especially those in the title, the first paragraph and any "requirements" list. These are your priorities.
Use a hybrid layout
- Summary: two or three lines saying who you are and what you offer this role.
- Key skills: a short list using the ad's wording, only for skills you truly have.
- Experience: your jobs in date order, with bullets that show those skills in action.
A purely skills-based CV with no work history can raise questions, and recruiters and software both expect dates and employers. The hybrid layout gives you both.
Prove every skill
For each key skill, find one bullet that shows it, ideally with a number, such as time saved, money managed, people led or customers served. If you can't find evidence, leave the skill out or note it as something you're learning.
Don't overreach
Never list a skill you couldn't discuss in an interview. A focused, honest CV beats a long list of buzzwords.
Build an ATS-friendly CV and cover letter from your CV and the job ad, edit the free preview, and pay only to download. Add a video introduction when you are ready.