Write a CV that tells your story

Start with the role you want

Read the job description before editing your CV. Identify the responsibilities and skills you can genuinely demonstrate, then bring that relevant experience closer to the top. Keep your name, phone number and email easy to find, and check that they are correct.

Show what you contributed

Describe what you did, how you did it and the result. “Maintained weekly stock records and flagged shortages before orders were placed” tells a clearer story than “Responsible for stock.” Add numbers only when you can verify them; never invent achievements to make a bullet sound stronger.

Make every section accurate

Use the exact names of your qualifications and institutions. For school education, list the O Level or A Level qualifications you actually completed rather than calling them a diploma. If you are starting out, include relevant projects, volunteering or practical training, clearly labelled.

Give it one final check

Choose a readable layout, use consistent dates and remove details that do not help your application. Export a PDF unless the employer requests another format. Open the file on your phone, check the page breaks and ask someone you trust to proofread it before you apply.