CV Formats and Examples

CV Formats and Examples

There are three different CV formats suited for different job situations.

How do I decide which type of CV is best for me?

The answer may depend on the job description, but there is a definite trend towards functional/chronological CVs
            
To help you decide - think about these questions

• Do you have gaps or breaks in your employment history?
• Are you staying in the same area of work or having a career change?
• Have you had several short term or seasonal jobs?

 

1. Traditional CV

You can never go wrong with the traditional CV since it’s the one that most employers expect to see. The challenge with it is to make it as unique as possible. Because employers are used to it, they are looking for something that makes it different to others. To do this, try to make it as relevant to the job at hand with the right keywords and information taken from the job description. This example is straightforward, it keeps everything simple and avoids fancy designs.

2. Modern CV

Modern CVs work perfectly for creative roles. The best thing is that they don’t need to look avant-garde. This example, manages to stay true to the traditional type featuring some modern touches with the structure it follows. Unlike the traditional one, it isn’t confined to the standard black and white format, which is what employers are used to. So, if you want something different from the ordinary, try Kukook.
Kukook

3. Entry-Level CV

The entry-level CV is the ideal type to use if you are a new graduate and applying for your first job. Just like most graduates you won't have much work experience to begin with so you should focus on your skills and education. You can talk about your modules, thesis/dissertation, hobbies or voluntary experience you had as a student, as long as they can be relevant to the job.
The Balance

4. Experienced Professional CV

CVs for higher positions and experienced professionals may go over two pages or more sometimes – if you have a lot to talk about, just like academic CVs. If you are well-established in your career, you can use this format, and give emphasis on key areas of expertise and experience in the job. This should show employers what they need to know right away. Use keywords but avoid flooding it with unnecessary ones.
VisualCV

5. Space-Saving CV

If you want to fit everything on one page, the space-saver CV is the most appropriate format to choose, particularly for students. This example makes use of bullet points and lists only the basics of what employers need to know. Here, you can briefly refer to your knowledge in the field using the career objective, then talk about your skills, experience, education and additional information – where you can talk about your key achievements. This is a great example that shows how you can come up with a CV that includes information that’s only relevant to the job, leaving out unnecessary details.
TidyForm

6. Management CV

Applying for a management role is highly competitive and you will need a strong CV to beat the competition. While there are management positions in different fields, employers will be looking for those skills and qualities found in managers e.g. coaching skills, leadership, people skills, cooperation and negotiation so make sure these are clearly visible. Backing up these skills is as important as listing them, and this example manages to do it well.

7. Chronological CV

The chronological CV is the most commonly used amongst jobseekers and it’s the favourite choice of recruiters. Its strongest section is the career summary that talks about your key experience, skills and then talks about your professional experience. Following a reverse-chronological order, it lists the most recent experience first. This example uses a slick, modern design to give you an idea of what you can do with yours.