The Career Academy16/10/2017

Your CV: make a great first impression

A CV does not need to be perfect. It needs to be clear, relevant, and easy to scan. Below is the checklist I use to turn a fine CV into one that feels professional and job ready.

A CV structure that works Bullet examples you can copy ATS keyword tips (simple)

Editor note: replace hero image with a locally uploaded image for best speed. Suggested size 2240 by 1260.

Optional: Add one verified stat here (with a link) about tailoring your CV, but only if you can source it.

My quick CV checklist

If I can tick most of these, my CV usually gets taken seriously.

Simple rule: if a stranger can understand my CV in 30 seconds, I am on the right track.

What employers scan for first

  • Do I match the role title and key skills.
  • Can they see proof I can do the work.
  • Does my experience look recent and relevant.
  • Is it easy to read without effort.
Tip: I keep the top third of the first page strong. That is where most first impressions are made.

A CV structure that works in the UK

  1. Name and contact details (plus LinkedIn if you have one).
  2. Role title (the role you are applying for).
  3. Personal summary (three to five lines).
  4. Key skills (six to ten skills, matched to the job ad).
  5. Experience (most recent first, bullets not paragraphs).
  6. Education and training (include your online course and what you learned).
  7. Optional: achievements, volunteering, projects, licences.
  8. References: you can leave this out, or use “Available on request”.

Bullet points that sound stronger (without exaggerating)

I try to write bullets using this pattern: action, tool, outcome. If I can add a number, even better.

Example: Admin

Before

Answered phones and emails.

After

Managed a shared inbox and phone line, responding to 30+ customer queries per day and routing urgent issues to the right team to keep response times consistent.

Example: Bookkeeping

Before

Did invoices and payments.

After

Raised 20 to 40 sales invoices weekly, recorded payments, and kept VAT supporting documents organised in one place to reduce back and forth and speed up checks.

Example: Customer service

Before

Helped customers.

After

Handled customer queries calmly, resolved common issues on first contact, and escalated complex cases with clear notes so the next person could act fast.

Example: Teamwork

Before

Worked well in a team.

After

Worked closely with a team of 6 to share updates, cover shifts when needed, and keep tasks moving during busy periods.
Reality check: I only claim what I can explain in an interview. If I cannot talk through it clearly, it does not go on the CV.

Stronger proof examples (quick copy ideas)

These are simple, realistic numbers you can adapt. Replace them with your real figures.

• Processed 80+ documents per week with high accuracy, keeping records easy to audit. • Reduced follow ups by using a single folder system for notes and supporting files. • Supported a small team by updating trackers daily so deadlines were visible.

Tip: If you do not have numbers, use frequency and scope instead (daily, weekly, shared inbox, rota, tills, deliveries, bookings).

Cover letter: keep it short, make it personal

A cover letter is simply a short note that answers three questions.

  • Why this role.
  • Why me.
  • What proof can I point to.
Copy and paste cover letter outline
Dear Hiring Manager, I am applying for the [Job Title] role. I am interested in this position because [one genuine reason linked to the company or role]. I can offer [two to three key strengths], and I have recent experience in [relevant area]. For example, I have [one short proof point that matches the job advert]. I would welcome the chance to discuss how I can support your team. Thank you for your time and consideration. Kind regards, [Your Name]
Tip: I keep the cover letter to half a page whenever possible.

How I list an online course properly

I keep it simple and link it to the job.

Education and training Certificate in X (Online) The Career Academy, UK Completed: Month Year (or In progress) What I learned: • Key skill one linked to the role • Key skill two linked to the role • Key skill three linked to the role

If you are early in your career, include GCSEs and A levels (or equivalent) with grades, plus any short courses that match the role.

ATS friendly formatting (simple)

  • Use clear headings (Summary, Skills, Experience, Education).
  • Avoid tables for core CV content if you are unsure the employer system can read them.
  • Avoid icons, logos, and heavy graphics in the CV itself.
  • Use keywords naturally, only if they are true for you.
Tip: A clean, readable CV helps both software and humans.

Common CV mistakes I avoid

Too much detail

If it is not relevant, it goes. A CV is not a full life story.

Weak bullets

I swap duties for outcomes. Even small wins count.

Messy layout

Consistent dates, spacing, and headings make it easy to trust.

Helpful resource: The National Careers Service has practical CV advice and examples. View CV guidance.

My quick CV upgrade plan for today

Step 1: Match the job advert

  • Copy the job ad skills into a notes file.
  • Update my skills section so it matches what they are asking for (use the same keywords where it fits).
  • Reorder bullets so the most relevant proof is first.

Step 2: Add proof

  • Add one number where possible: volume, time, money, accuracy.
  • Add one sentence that shows responsibility or trust.
  • Remove filler words that do not add meaning.

My notes for this application

This box is editable. Paste the job advert points here and tick them off as you update your CV.

Paste key skills from the job advert here, then write one proof line for each. Example: • Customer service: handled 30+ queries per day, kept notes, resolved issues calmly • Admin: managed inbox and scheduling, kept documents organised • Bookkeeping: raised 20 invoices weekly, recorded payments, filed VAT documents

Want support with job ready skills

If you want structured training and practical skills you can show on your CV, our online courses are designed to help you build confidence and proof.

Explore accounting and bookkeeping Read what to do after study Speak to a Course Advisor

This article is general guidance. If you are applying for a regulated role, always follow the employer requirements.

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The Career Academy
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