How to Write a CV in the UK (2026 Guide)
11 August 2026
Step-by-step guide on how to write a CV in the UK for 2026. Includes format, structure, and top tips to impress employers and pass ATS.
Understanding the UK CV Format
In the UK, a CV (curriculum vitae) is a concise document that presents your skills, experience, and education, usually no longer than two A4 pages. Unlike in the US, the UK CV rarely includes a photo, date of birth, or marital status, as these are considered personal and irrelevant to your ability to do the job. You should write in British English and structure your CV using clear headings like 'Work Experience', 'Education', and 'Key Skills'. Most UK employers expect a chronological format, but a skills-based CV can be useful if you're changing careers or have gaps in your employment history. Keep the design clean and professional, avoiding graphics or tables that might confuse applicant tracking systems (ATS).
Start with Your Contact Details
Your CV should begin with your name at the top, followed by your phone number, a professional email address, and your location (town or city and postcode is fine, but not your full address for security reasons). Include a link to your LinkedIn profile if it is up to date, and only add your driving licence status if you are applying for a role that requires driving. Make sure your email address sounds professional – for example, '[email protected]' rather than '[email protected]'. Also include your right-to-work information if you're not a UK citizen, but keep it brief. Avoid adding a personal statement at this stage; that comes next, but many candidates put a short headline under their name, such as 'Marketing Manager with 8 years' experience'.
Write a Compelling Personal Profile
The personal profile (or professional summary) is the first section recruiters read after your contact details. It should be 4–6 sentences that tell employers who you are, what you bring to the table, and what you're looking for. Mention your years of experience, key strengths, and the type of role you're targeting. For example: 'Results-driven project manager with over 6 years' experience in the construction sector, specialising in cost control and stakeholder management. Proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget. Seeking a challenging senior role in Leeds.' Tailor this paragraph to each job application, using keywords from the job advert to show you're a great fit. Avoid clichés like 'hardworking' and 'team player' – instead, give concrete examples or metrics.
List Your Work Experience in Reverse Chronological Order
Your work experience section should be listed with your most recent role first. For each position, include your job title, the company name, location, and dates of employment (month and year). Beneath each role, use bullet points to highlight your responsibilities and achievements, starting each bullet with an action verb like 'led', 'developed', or 'improved'. Where possible, quantify your achievements – for example, 'Increased sales by 25% in six months' or 'Managed a team of 12 staff'. Don't just repeat your job description; focus on what you actually achieved. If you have gaps in your employment, address them briefly in your cover letter but don't draw unnecessary attention to them on your CV unless they are easy to explain, such as travelling or parental leave.
Education, Skills, and Final Polish
For education, list your qualifications from most recent to oldest – degrees, relevant A-levels, and GCSEs or equivalent. In the UK, employers often want to see your GCSE grades in English and Maths, so include them if you have them. Add a skills section listing relevant technical skills, languages, and certifications, but keep it targeted to the job. You can include a short hobbies and interests section if it adds value, but it's optional. Finally, proofread your CV thoroughly for spelling and grammar errors – UK employers are sticklers for correct spelling (e.g., 'organise' not 'organize'). Save your CV as a PDF with a standard file name like 'Jane-Smith-CV.pdf' and keep it to two pages max. Also, don't write 'References available on request' – it's assumed, so leave it out.
FAQ
No, a UK CV should not include a photo. In the UK, it is standard practice to omit photos as they are unnecessary and could lead to unconscious bias. Employers are interested in your skills and experience, not your appearance. Some companies might ask for a photo if it's for a model or acting role, but for normal jobs leave it out.