What is the best CV layout for 2022? With example CV!

By Jen David
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21 Mar, 2022

Find out about the best CV format to land your next job When you start writing your CV, one of the first decisions you’ll have to make is about which format to use. But why does the format of your CV matter so much? Well, the order in which you present the information and the detail you go into will have an impact on the recruiter’s perception. First impressions count, so it’s important to choose a format that ensures the reader can see at a glance why they’d want you in the role. You’ll also need to consider the layout  of your CV, so that the format complements the presentation. There are three main CV formats, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. We’ll explore them in depth here, to help you to decide which is best for you. The Reverse-Chronological CV format The reverse-chronological CV does what it says on the tin. Your career and qualifications are presented in reverse chronological order, which usually means that the most relevant experience is at the top and is therefore the first thing the recruiter will read. Imagine applying for a position as a Chief Financial Officer, and the first thing the hiring manager finds out about you is that you had a paper round when you were 13! “Recent” and “relevant” are critical attributes for your CV. The main benefit of a reverse-chronological CV format is that it makes it very easy for a recruiter to understand your career path and how your experience aligns with the position available. For this reason, it’s the most common type of CV and is generally preferred by both human recruiters and applicant tracking systems. It might not be right for you, however, if you are trying to hide something – a period of long-term unemployment, for example. This format could also be unsuitable for career changers, when the focus needs to be on transferrable skills rather than industry experience. Example of a reverse-chronological CV