How to write a CV: UK guide 2026
How to write a UK CV: reverse-chronological structure, personal statement, length, gaps and PDF — with free generator.
A CV is the central document for UK job applications. Recruiters expect reverse-chronological experience, a focused personal statement, and one to two pages of factual detail. This guide explains how to structure a British CV (not a US-style résumé), which sections are essential, how to tailor content to each role, and how to avoid common mistakes.
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A CV is the central document for UK job applications. Recruiters expect reverse-chronological experience, a focused personal statement, and one to two pages of factual detail. This guide explains how to structure a British CV (not a US-style résumé), which sections are essential, how to tailor content to each role, and how to avoid common mistakes.
The Tailero CV generator provides reverse-chronological structure, UK date formats, and PDF export per role. Download the filled sample below (fictional persona) or open the generator. Full application pack: application documents.
Chronological CV vs other formats
In the UK the standard is a reverse-chronological CV: your most recent role appears first, with clear dates and employer names. A skills-based CV (grouping by competency) is acceptable for career changers or long gaps — but most sectors still prefer chronological layout.
For tech, healthcare, trades, and office roles: keep to one or two pages, clear headings, and minimal graphics. Applicant tracking systems (ATS) parse simple layouts more reliably than heavily designed templates.
| Format | When to use | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Reverse-chronological | Default in the UK | 1–2 pages |
| Skills-based | Career change, long gaps | 1–2 pages |
| Academic CV | Research, lecturing | 3+ pages |
Specialised and sector CV formats
Most UK roles use a reverse-chronological CV. Some sectors expect variations: academic CVs list publications and grants; technical profiles may add a skills matrix; creative portfolios are separate from the CV file.
Performing arts and acting CVs are different: they lead with credits (stage, screen, voice) grouped by category, not employer bullet points. Training, accents, and union membership appear in dedicated blocks. A standard office CV layout will not match casting expectations — use a one-page credit sheet format instead.
If you are switching sectors, keep one master CV and export a tailored PDF per application. Match the format recruiters in that industry expect rather than forcing a single template.
Required sections and order
Header: name, phone, email, city (full address optional), LinkedIn URL. Do not include date of birth, age, or marital status — UK employers should not require these under equality law.
Core sections: personal statement (3–4 lines), work experience, education, skills (technical and soft), languages. Optional: volunteering, projects, certifications — only if relevant to the target role.
Each role should list: dates (Month YYYY – Month YYYY), employer, location, job title, and 3–5 bullet points with measurable outcomes (e.g. “Reduced support tickets by 18%”, “Managed a team of 4”). Pair with a tailored cover letter for each application.
Personal statement and tailoring
The personal statement sits at the top and replaces outdated “career objective” lines. Write in the third person or neutral tone: role, years of experience, sector, and strongest skill — tailored to the vacancy.
Mirror keywords from the job description without keyword-stuffing. Ideally one CV per application; at minimum adjust the statement and top bullets for each role. For speculative applications, keep the statement employer-specific.
Explain gaps over six months briefly (training, caring responsibilities, redundancy) — in the CV itself, not only in the cover letter.
Photo, layout and PDF export
Photos are uncommon on UK CVs unless the employer or sector explicitly expects one (e.g. some acting or modelling roles). When in doubt, omit the photo.
Font: Arial, Calibri or Helvetica at 10–11 pt body text, 14–16 pt for your name. Margins around 2 cm. British English spelling throughout (organisation, colour, centre).
Export as PDF — avoid password protection. File name: Surname_CV.pdf. Send alongside a separate cover letter PDF; see the application documents pack for order.
Common mistakes to avoid
Spelling errors, inconsistent date formats, inflated skills, or a three-page CV for an entry-level role.
Do not list salary expectations on the CV — discuss at interview unless the advert asks for them upfront. See salary increase request guidance for later stages.
“References available on request” is enough; full referee contact lists are rarely needed until the offer stage. After interviews, prepare a thank-you note.
Avoid US conventions: no “résumé” layout with no dates, no Social Security–style identifiers, and no photo by default.
Checklist
- Maximum two pages, reverse-chronological, current role at top
- Personal statement with role and core skill
- Measurable achievements in bullet points
- Keywords from the job ad woven in naturally
- PDF exported as Surname_CV.pdf
- Gaps explained, British spelling checked
FAQ
How long should a CV be in the UK?
One to two pages for most roles. Graduates often use one page; senior profiles with relevant projects should still cap at two unless applying for academic posts.
Should I include a photo on my CV?
Not required and often discouraged. Include only if the employer asks or your sector routinely expects it.
What is the difference between a CV and a résumé?
In the UK “CV” is the standard term. “Résumé” usually implies a shorter US-style document — use UK structure for British employers.
Should the cover letter go inside the CV?
No. CV and cover letter are separate PDFs sent together. See the cover letter guide.
Can I write my CV with AI?
As a drafting aid, yes — but facts must be accurate and tailored. Recruiters spot generic AI text quickly.
Which font should I use for a UK CV?
Arial, Calibri or Helvetica at 10–11 pt. Keep one font family; avoid mixing decorative typefaces.