Skip to main content

CV advice · 8 min read · 2026-04-10

How to write a CV that wins interviews

By TalentCoy Editorial

A strong CV is not a list of every job you ever had — it is a focused argument for why you are a good fit for the role in front of you. Start by reading the job advert carefully and noting the key responsibilities and required skills.

Each bullet on your CV should describe a real achievement using the action + impact format. Use numbers where you have them, but never invent metrics. Honesty makes you more compelling, not less.

Add the keywords from the advert naturally into your skills, summary, and experience sections. Do not stuff keywords or claim skills you cannot back up — recruiters will quickly notice.

Stick to a clean, single-column layout. Use consistent font sizes, clear headings, and enough white space to breathe. Save as PDF unless the application portal explicitly asks for DOCX.

Read your CV out loud before sending. Cut anything that does not earn its place.

Template — Achievement bullet template

[Action verb] [what you did] [for whom / context], resulting in [measurable or qualitative outcome].

Final checklist

  • Tailored to this specific role
  • Every bullet has an action and an outcome
  • No invented metrics or skills
  • Spelling and grammar checked
  • Saved as PDF unless DOCX is required
  • File name includes your name and the role

Related articles

How to write a CV that wins interviews | TalentCoy