CV Good Practice in 2025: What You Need to Know

The CV has come a long way from one-page Word documents with bullet points and Times New Roman.

In 2025, recruiters are looking for documents that are clear, concise, and digital-ready, but also personal, authentic, and aligned with the new world of work.

If you’re polishing your CV this year, here’s the good practice guide you need.

1. Keep it short and sharp

Gone are the days of five-page CVs. Recruiters in 2025 expect a maximum of two pages, with the most important details on page one. Use clear headings, bullet points, and plenty of white space so it’s easy to scan in under 30 seconds. Think impact, not essay.

2. Lead with a personal summary

The old “objective statement” is out. Instead, open with a short personal profile, a snapshot of who you are, your strengths, and what you bring to the table. Keep it authentic, not generic. Phrases like “results-driven professional” are overused; instead, say something specific and memorable about yourself.

3. Show results, not just responsibilities

Employers want to see impact. Replace bland job descriptions with achievements. Use numbers and evidence wherever possible: “Increased sales by 22% in Q4,” “Grew social media following by 15k in six months,” or “Led a team of 10 to deliver projects ahead of schedule.” Results tell your story better than responsibilities.

4. Highlight digital and future skills

In 2025, digital literacy, adaptability, and AI-savvy skills are just as valuable as traditional experience. Showcase your comfort with tools like ChatGPT, data analysis platforms, or remote collaboration software. Employers want proof you’re ready for the workplace of the future.

5. Tailor, tailor, tailor

One-size-fits-all CVs no longer cut it. Use keywords from the job description (many companies now use AI to scan CVs). Emphasise the experience that matches that role. Recruiters can spot a generic CV in seconds - customisation shows effort and alignment.

6. Don’t ignore design

You don’t need a graphic designer, but presentation matters. Use clean fonts, a splash of colour for headings, and subtle formatting that makes your CV stand out without being over the top. Avoid clutter, fancy backgrounds, or too many icons. Clarity is king.

7. Include soft skills the right way

Resilience, leadership, communication - they’re vital in 2025, but don’t just list them. Back them up with short examples: “Built client trust through transparent communication, securing repeat contracts worth $500k.” This makes soft skills tangible.

8. Don’t forget LinkedIn (and beyond)

Recruiters will check your LinkedIn profile, often before they call you. Make sure your CV and online presence match. In creative industries, link to a portfolio, website, or digital showcase. In 2025, your CV is no longer a standalone document - it’s part of a bigger professional ecosystem.

9. Keep it human

AI is increasingly scanning CVs, but it’s still humans making the final decisions. Let your personality peek through, whether it’s a personal passion in your profile, a volunteer role, or a unique achievement outside work. These human touches make you memorable.

The best CVs in 2025 blend clarity with creativity, results with relatability, and digital readiness with human warmth. Think of your CV as a conversation starter - not just a record of jobs, but a story of where you’ve been and where you’re going.