UK CV template: what to include and how to format it
A strong UK CV makes it easy for a recruiter to understand what you can do, what experience you have and why you fit the role. Use this practical structure as a starting point, then tailor the details to each job.
UK CV checklist
- Name and contact details: include your name, a professional email address, phone number and location such as city or region. A full home address is usually unnecessary.
- Personal profile: write 2–4 specific lines about your relevant experience, strengths and target role. Avoid generic claims that could describe anyone.
- Work experience: list roles in reverse chronological order. Include employer, job title, dates and concise bullet points showing responsibilities and outcomes.
- Skills: prioritise skills requested in the job advert and be ready to support them with examples.
- Education and qualifications: include relevant qualifications, institutions and dates where useful for the role.
- Additional sections: add certifications, languages, volunteering or projects when they strengthen your application.
How long should a UK CV be?
For many applicants, two pages is a useful target, but the right length depends on your experience and the role. Early-career applicants may have enough relevant information for one page. Keep useful evidence and remove repetition rather than shrinking the font to fit an arbitrary limit.
Should you include a photo, date of birth or marital status?
These details are generally not needed on a standard UK CV. Focus on job-relevant experience, skills and qualifications instead. Follow specific instructions from the employer if an application asks for additional information.
How to tailor your CV to a UK job advert
- Read the responsibilities and essential criteria carefully.
- Identify the experience and skills you genuinely have that match those requirements.
- Move the most relevant evidence higher on the page and use clear, direct language.
- Use measurable results where you can support them; never invent numbers, duties or qualifications.
- Proofread spelling, dates, contact details and formatting before sending the final file.
Simple example of a work-experience bullet
Instead of: “Responsible for customer service and daily tasks.”
Try: “Handled customer enquiries, resolved routine issues and kept daily records accurate.”
This example is illustrative. Adapt it to work you actually performed, and add verified results when available.
Can I make a UK CV for free?
With CVReady, you can enter your details, choose from nine CV styles and preview your CV without paying upfront. The finished PDF download costs €0.99 as a one-time payment. Review the preview carefully before purchasing.