How to Write a CV (UK) — a practical guide with examples
If you’re staring at a blank page and overthinking every line, you’re not alone. This guide shows you exactly what to include in a UK CV, how to structure it, and how to write wording that sounds confident (without sounding fake).
Want the fastest route? Use the builder and we’ll structure it properly for you.
- What is a CV?
- What to include
- CV layout example
- Personal statement
- Skills examples
- Common mistakes
- Should you use a template?
- FAQ
Want role-specific wording? See CV examples UK or the full UK CV format guide.
What is a CV?
A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a clear, structured summary of your skills, experience and education — written to help a recruiter quickly decide if you’re a good match for the job. In the UK, a CV is usually 1–2 pages.
What to include in a UK CV
Most UK CVs follow the same core layout. Keep it simple and easy to scan.
Quick rule: if it doesn’t help you get this job, remove it. A focused CV beats a long CV every time.
If you’re applying with no work history, use the same structure but put education higher and add volunteering/school responsibilities. See CV with no experience (UK) and CV for 16 year old (UK).
CV layout example (UK format)
Here’s a simple structure that works for most jobs. You can copy this format.
YOUR NAME Phone • Email • Town/City PERSONAL STATEMENT 2–4 lines that match the job and prove your value. EMPLOYMENT HISTORY Job Title — Company (Town/City) | Month Year – Month Year • Achievement/result (numbers help) • Responsibility + impact • Systems/tools used (if relevant) EDUCATION / QUALIFICATIONS Qualification — School/College/Provider (Year) [optional grade] SKILLS • Skill 1 • Skill 2 • Skill 3 • Skill 4 REFERENCES References available on request.
Want the full layout rules (length, margins, what to remove)? See UK CV format (2026).
How to write a personal statement
Your personal statement is the “why you” section. Keep it short and specific:
- Start with who you are (role/level)
- Add 2–3 strengths that match the job
- Prove it with a result or responsibility
- End with what you’re targeting next
Example personal statement (UK)
“Reliable warehouse and dispatch team leader with 5+ years’ experience managing day shifts, high-volume B2C orders and B2B customer fulfilment. Strong on accuracy, organisation and team morale, with proven results during peak periods. Now seeking a stable leadership role in logistics or operations.”
If you’re applying for customer-facing roles, compare the tone with our customer service CV example or retail CV example.
CV skills examples (pick what fits)
Only include skills that are relevant to the job you want. Mix practical skills with a few strong “work habits”.
Practical skills
- Customer service
- Stock control
- Scheduling & rota planning
- Order processing
- Excel / Google Sheets
- Cash handling / POS systems
Strong work habits
- Reliable & punctual
- Calm under pressure
- Attention to detail
- Team leadership
- Clear communication
- Problem solving
Common CV mistakes (and quick fixes)
It’s too long
Cut anything that doesn’t support your target job. Keep it focused.
It’s vague
Add proof: numbers, outcomes, responsibilities, tools, customers.
No structure
Use clear headings, bullet points, and reverse chronological order.
Weak wording
Swap ‘helped with’ for ‘managed’, ‘improved’, ‘delivered’, ‘reduced’.
Spelling/formatting issues
Keep font consistent, use one style, and run a final check.
Should you use a CV template?
Yes — if it’s clean, recruiter-safe and prints properly. A template helps you avoid messy formatting and makes your CV faster to scan.
If you want it done quickly, CVCraft builds a structured CV for you and keeps it in a proper format ready to export.
FAQ
How long should a CV be in the UK?
Usually 1–2 pages. If you’re early in your career, one page is often enough. If you have years of relevant experience, two pages is fine — keep it focused.
What is the best UK CV structure?
Most UK CVs use: contact details, personal statement, employment history, education/qualifications, skills, and optional references. Keep headings clear and use bullet points.
Do I need a photo on my CV in the UK?
Usually no. UK CVs typically do not include photos. Focus on skills, achievements, and experience instead.
Should I include references on my CV?
It’s optional. Most UK applicants write “References available on request”. If you list a referee, ask permission first.
How do I write a strong personal statement?
Keep it to 3–5 lines. Start with who you are, add 2–3 strengths that match the job, prove it with a responsibility or result, and finish with what role you want next.
Ready to build yours?
Use the builder, pick a template, and export when you’re happy.