CV 2026 guide
Make a CV that feels current in 2026.
A strong CV is clear, tailored to the role, and simple for recruiters and applicant-tracking systems to scan.
Create my free CV →Choose a clear format
Use a reverse-chronological layout, a readable font, and standard headings for contact details, summary, experience, education, and skills.
Write for the job
Mirror the language of the job description only where it truthfully reflects your experience, then prove it with specific results.
Use AI carefully
AI can help you edit, organise ideas, and spot gaps. Check every claim, number, and skill before you send your application.
The best CV format for 2026
For most job applications, use a reverse-chronological CV: your current or most recent role first, then earlier relevant experience. It is familiar to recruiters and makes career progression easy to follow.
Put your name and contact details at the top, followed by a short professional summary. Then add work experience, education, skills, and relevant certifications or projects. A single-column document with clear headings is a safe default for online applications.
What to write in every section
Your summary should say what you do, the type of experience you bring, and the value you can offer. Avoid broad phrases such as ‘hard worker’ unless the rest of the CV demonstrates them with evidence.
In your experience section, turn duties into results. Instead of ‘managed social media’, write what you managed, for whom, and what improved. For example: ‘Planned and published a weekly content calendar for three product lines, increasing newsletter sign-ups by 18%.’
Using AI without weakening your application
AI is useful for turning notes into a first draft, identifying repeated words, and helping you find stronger ways to describe real work. It should not invent achievements, qualifications, employers, or numbers.
Treat every AI suggestion as an edit to review. Your final CV needs to sound like you, match your actual experience, and give you examples you can explain confidently in an interview.
Before you apply
Quick CV checklist
- Use a clear job title and professional contact details.
- Tailor your summary and the first few experience bullets to the role.
- Use results, scope, and numbers where you can support them.
- Keep dates, tense, punctuation, and spacing consistent.
- Check the final PDF carefully before uploading or sending it.
Common questions
CV FAQ
What is the best CV length in 2026?
Use the shortest length that clearly presents your relevant evidence. One page is often enough for students and early-career applicants; two pages is common when you have more relevant experience.
Should I include a photo on my CV?
Follow the norms of the country and the employer. If you include one, it should never replace essential contact, skills, or experience information, and the rest of the document should remain easy to read.
Should every CV be tailored?
Yes. Keep a complete master CV, then adjust the summary, skills, and most relevant experience for each role. Only use keywords and claims that accurately reflect your experience.