Learn how to write the best CV in 2025 with this user-friendly guide covering format, content, layout, and proven tips to help you stand out.
Creating the best CV in 2025 isn’t about copying outdated templates or using flashy fonts. It’s about showing who you are—clearly, confidently, and with purpose. Whether you’re just starting out, switching careers, or chasing your next big role, this guide will walk you through the process of crafting a CV that gets you noticed.
Why a Strong CV Matters More Than Ever in 2025
With more companies using applicant tracking systems (ATS) and the job market evolving quickly, your CV has to do more than just “list your experience.” It has to tell your story, highlight your value, and do it in a format that machines and humans can both read with ease.
In 2025, hiring managers want clarity, confidence, and authenticity. Let’s help you deliver exactly that.
Start with a Clean and Modern Layout
One of the keys to building the best CV in 2025 is presentation. Here’s how to keep it modern:
Keep It Simple and Clean
Stick to easy-to-read fonts like Arial or Calibri. Use headings, bullet points, and white space to make the layout breathable and scannable.
One Page (Two Max)
If you have under 10 years of experience, one page is usually enough. For more seasoned professionals, two pages is acceptable.
Avoid Visual Clutter
Skip logos, headshots, or overly designed templates unless you’re in a creative industry that calls for it.
Start Strong with Your Personal Details and Headline
What to Include:
- Full Name
- Phone Number
- Email Address
- LinkedIn Profile (if updated)
- Job Title or Personal Tagline (e.g., Experienced IT Support Specialist | Cybersecurity Enthusiast)
Your tagline is a quick intro to what you offer—think of it as your headline.
Write a Friendly and Clear Professional Summary
This is a short, 3–4 line paragraph at the top of your CV that tells recruiters who you are and what you bring to the table.
🎯 Example for the best CV in 2025:
“Detail-oriented marketing graduate with hands-on internship experience in content creation and social media strategy. Known for creative thinking, fast learning, and a passion for storytelling in digital spaces.”
Avoid overused buzzwords like “go-getter” or “hard-working.” Instead, be real, specific, and personable.
Highlight Your Key Skills – Relevant and Role-Specific
Create a neat list of 6–10 key skills, tailored to the role you’re applying for. Use categories to keep it organised.
👇 For example:
- Technical Skills: Adobe Illustrator, HTML, Data Analysis
- Soft Skills: Problem-solving, Collaboration, Time Management
- Languages: English (Fluent), isiZulu (Conversational)
This skills section helps both human recruiters and ATS systems quickly understand your capabilities.
Showcase Experience the Right Way
Here’s how to structure your work history to fit the expectations of 2025:
Format Each Role Like This:
Job Title – Company Name
Location | Dates of Employment (Month/Year – Month/Year)
Use Bullet Points That Show Value
Start each bullet with a strong action verb (e.g., “Managed,” “Developed,” “Increased”) and focus on accomplishments, not just duties.
Example:
- Created weekly email campaigns that boosted customer engagement by 25%
- Trained 4 new team members, improving onboarding time by 40%
Where possible, use numbers to show impact.
Education Section – Keep It Sharp and Relevant
Education still matters, especially if you’re early in your career. Make it easy to find.
Format:
Degree or Qualification
Institution Name – Year Completed
Optional: Include academic awards, key coursework, or projects if they’re relevant to your field.
Certifications and Additional Training
This is your space to show you’re growing and staying current. Some examples:
- Google Project Management Certificate – 2025
- Advanced Excel Skills – Online Training, 2024
- Cybersecurity Basics – Self-paced, 2023
These can help position you as someone who takes initiative.
Add Project Highlights or a Portfolio (If Applicable)
Projects are great if you’re new to the job market or want to showcase specific work.
Example:
- Built a budgeting app using Flutter (2025)
- Designed a sustainable fashion prototype as part of a university capstone project
Link to a portfolio only if it’s professional, current, and tailored to the type of job you’re applying for.
Include Volunteer Work and Extracurriculars
Showing that you give back or take part in community efforts humanises your CV.
Example:
- Volunteer Tutor – Helped 20+ high school students improve English skills weekly
- Organizer – Annual Youth Tech Hackathon (2024)
These aren’t just “nice to haves”—they reflect initiative and leadership.
Tips to Help You Truly Create the Best CV in 2025
Here are some extra pointers to fine-tune your application:
💡 Tailor Your CV to Each Job
Use keywords from the job posting, especially in your skills and experience sections.
💡 Save as PDF
This keeps your formatting clean and consistent across devices.
💡 Name the File Properly
Example: YourName_CV_2025.pdf looks more professional than CVfinalfinal123.pdf.
💡 Proofread!
Grammar or spelling mistakes can ruin a great first impression. Use tools like Grammarly or read it aloud.
What Not to Include on Your 2025 CV
Avoid cluttering your CV with outdated or unnecessary information. Here’s what to leave out:
- Your photo (unless specifically requested)
- Irrelevant part-time jobs (from more than 10 years ago)
- Personal information like ID number, religion, or marital status
- Best cv maker
- References (these can be “available on request” or left off)
Best CV in 2025: Format Summary
| Section | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Name & Contact Info | Easy way to reach you |
| Headline/Tagline | Clear message about your expertise |
| Summary | Short intro showing personality |
| Key Skills | Snapshot of your abilities |
| Experience | What you’ve done and achieved |
| Education | Background and training |
| Certifications | Relevant extra learning |
| Projects/Portfolio | Samples of what you’ve built/done |
| Volunteering | Personal initiatives and leadership |
Final Thoughts on Writing the Best CV in 2025
Your CV is your personal billboard—it should reflect your strengths, personality, and direction. In 2025, recruiters are looking for people who know how to communicate well, adapt quickly, and solve problems. A great CV helps you start that conversation before you even step into the interview.
Remember: clean, clear, and confident is the way to go. If it feels real and represents who you are professionally, you’re on the right track.