Too much confusion (and stress) about CVs — let’s clear that up.
Here are 5 blunt truths I share with clients that actually help:
✅ Your CV reader is not your biographer.
Stop overloading it with everything you’ve ever done.
Prioritise what’s relevant to the job.
👉 Skills-led, keyword-led, and action verbs (“Implemented…” > “I showed great work ethic…”).
Be elegantly ruthless with what you cut.
✅ They’re judging you as a candidate, not as a human.
Harsh, but true.
Your CV needs to scream: “I can solve your problem” — not “I really need this job.”
Keep asking: What is the core need this role is meant to meet?
Align everything to that.
✅ Your CV is not your interview performance.
Different tools, different jobs.
Your CV’s one job: Get you to ian nterview.
Save the charming, dynamic, persuasive stuff for when you’re in the room (or on Zoom).
A great CV opens the door; a great interview gets the offer.
✅ Your CV’s best friend? The job spec.
It’s gold.
Mine it for language, keywords, and clues about the ideal candidate.
Then mirror that language in your CV.
Step into the employer’s shoes — and excite them.
✅ Your CV needs to be digitally up to date.
📎 Add your LinkedIn link and clickable hyperlinks.
💻 Go beyond Word & Excel — mention tools like:
- Project management systems
- CRM platforms
- Data visualization
- Internal comms tools (e.g., Workday)
Even for non-tech roles, this shows you’re current.
🎧 Want more tips? Listen to me, Jane Downes, founder of Clearview, on Newstalk’s Hardshoulder.
And if you’re still unsure about your CV, let’s talk.
Your next opportunity could depend on getting this right.
