What to put in a CV

A CV helps an employer understand what you can do and whether your experience fits an opening. It is a working document, not a complete life story. Start with the information needed to contact you, then choose evidence that relates to the job.

Start with contact details

Put your name, professional email address and a reliable phone number near the top. A city or region can be useful when location matters. A portfolio or work-profile link belongs here only if it is current and relevant. Check each detail before sending: a strong application is of little use if the employer cannot reach you.

Give the reader a direction

A short profile can explain your experience, relevant strengths and target role. Avoid a long list of claims such as “hardworking” or “excellent communicator” without evidence. For example, a student might describe a course project and the tools used rather than imply years of professional experience.

Choose evidence for the middle

Include work experience, education and relevant skills. For each role, record the employer, title and dates, followed by a short description of useful responsibilities or achievements. Include volunteering, placements or projects when they show skills the employer needs. Put recent experience first within a section. If education is your strongest evidence, it can come before work history.

Keep personal information purposeful

Do not treat every application market as the same. UK National Careers Service guidance says not to include age, date of birth, marital status or nationality. That is a UK-specific recommendation, not a claim that all countries use identical rules. Read the employer's instructions and local guidance before sharing sensitive details. Do not include someone else's reference contact details without their permission.

Your final check

• Can the reader find your contact details quickly?
• Does every major section help explain your fit for the role?
• Are dates, names and qualifications accurate?
• Have you removed private information that the employer does not need?

Use the builder for a first draft, then review the result yourself. No template can guarantee an interview.