Your toolkit for a successful job application

It’s more than okay to use a CV template. A CV template saves you lots of time by providing you with a pre-formatted CV that you simply download to your computer or device and fill in with your own details. Be sure to learn how to write a CV before editing your download though, or your finalised CV might lack important details.

Online CV templates should be compatible with applicant tracking systems (ATS) — software that scans CVs and cover letters for keywords. Graphics, uncommon file formats, and rare fonts can prevent the ATS from reading your CV properly. So we’ve made sure you have a library of ATS-friendly CV templates at your disposal as you hunt for the job of your dreams.

Our CV builder templates are designed to be suitable for any job, no matter what your background is. But keep these guidelines in mind when choosing a template:

• Use a traditional CV design for jobs in law firms, banks, and the civil service because these employers tend to be more conservative
• For creative roles, like graphic design, event planning, and fashion, feel free to select a more creative CV template

Here’s what makes a good CV:

• Your contact details should be presented clearly, including your name in a large font, your mobile phone number, and your email address. Leave off your date of birth, nationality, sex, and marital status.
• A strong CV personal statement that highlights your most relevant achievements, skills, and qualifications for the job.
• A list of skills that includes the abilities mentioned in the job advert so that employers can see you meet the requirements for the position.
• A comprehensive work experience section that outlines your achievements at your current and most recent jobs. Focus on achievements rather than duties because achievements impress employers more. Add hard numbers to your bullet points to show recruiters what you’re capable of.
• Your educational accomplishments, including any degrees you hold, your A-Levels, and GCSEs or equivalents (for example, International Baccalaureate, Scottish Highers, and vocational qualifications).

Yes, you do need a matching cover letter for your CV. Format your cover letter the same as you formatted your CV. That means:

• using the same font and font size on your cover letter and CV
• highlighting your name in the same way (font size, colour)
• applying the same formatting (margins, lines, line spacing)

If you don’t know how to write a cover letter or think it’s too much hard work, speed up the process with a cover letter builder.

Any CV template you find on this website has a matching cover letter template you can use to save time and create a visually consistent application.

Yes, you should use a different CV for every job. Adjusting your CV for each job shows employers you understand what they’re looking for in candidates.

At a minimum, use the company’s name in your cover letter and CV personal statement, include keywords from the job advert in your CV, and write something in your cover letter about why you especially want to work for the company or that shows you know something about the company’s goals or history.