2026 CV Guide: What to Put on a CV

Why This Template Matters in 2026

When it comes to what to put on a CV, many job seekers are left with more questions than answers. As a certified career coach with over 10 years of experience, I've reviewed over 5,000 CVs and resumes, and I can tell you that the right template can make all the difference. In today's job market, having an ATS-friendly CV is crucial, as many companies use applicant tracking systems to filter out candidates before they even reach a human recruiter. The CV format and length are also important considerations, as recruiters often have to sift through hundreds of applications. In my experience, a well-crafted CV can be the key to standing out from the crowd and landing an interview.

Quick Answer

Table of Contents

Section-by-Section Breakdown
Common Mistakes that Get CVs Rejected
Free vs Professional CV Design
Frequently Asked Questions

Section-by-Section Breakdown

Understanding what to put on a CV is essential to creating a compelling application. Here's a breakdown of the key sections you should include:

Personal Information and Headline

Your personal information and headline should be concise and to the point. Include your name, contact information, and a professional headline that summarizes your experience and qualifications. I've seen many CVs that include too much personal information, which can be a turn-off for recruiters. Keep it simple and focused on your professional brand.

Professional Summary (10–15 Seconds Rule)

Your professional summary should be brief and impactful, summarizing your experience, skills, and achievements in 140–200 words. This section should be tailored to the specific job you're applying for, highlighting your relevant qualifications and experience. In my experience, a well-crafted professional summary can make or break a CV, as it's often the first thing recruiters read.

Work Experience (Achievement-Focused)

Your work experience section should focus on achievements rather than responsibilities. Use 3–5 bullet points to highlight your accomplishments and impact in each role, and be specific about the results you've achieved. I've reviewed many CVs that simply list job responsibilities, which doesn't give recruiters much insight into your capabilities. By focusing on achievements, you can demonstrate your value and potential to employers.

Education and Certifications

Your education and certifications section should include relevant degrees, diplomas, and certifications. Be sure to include the name of the institution, the degree or certification earned, and the date completed. I've seen many CVs that omit important educational qualifications, which can be a red flag for recruiters. Make sure to include all relevant education and certifications to demonstrate your expertise and commitment to your field.

Skills Section for ATS

Your skills section should be tailored to the specific job you're applying for, including relevant keywords and phrases from the job description. Use a combination of hard and soft skills to demonstrate your versatility and adaptability. In my experience, a well-crafted skills section can help your CV pass through ATS filters and catch the eye of recruiters.

Common Mistakes that Get CVs Rejected

There are several common mistakes that can get your CV rejected, even if you have the right qualifications and experience. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:

Mistake 1: Poor Formatting

Poor formatting can make your CV difficult to read and understand, which can lead to rejection. Use a clear and concise format, with bullet points and white space to make your CV easy to scan. I've seen many CVs that are cramped and cluttered, which can be overwhelming for recruiters.

Mistake 2: Lack of Tailoring

Failing to tailor your CV to the specific job you're applying for can make it seem like you're not a strong fit. Use keywords and phrases from the job description to demonstrate your relevance and qualifications. In my experience, a well-tailored CV can make a big difference in getting noticed by recruiters.

Mistake 3: Typos and Errors

Typos and errors can make your CV look sloppy and unprofessional, which can lead to rejection. Be sure to proofread your CV carefully to catch any mistakes before submitting it. I've seen many CVs that are riddled with typos and errors, which can be a major turn-off for recruiters.

Free vs Professional CV Design

While there are many free CV templates available online, a professional CV design can make a big difference in getting noticed by recruiters. A well-designed CV can help you stand out from the crowd and demonstrate your professionalism and attention to detail. For more information on CV design, check out our guides on writing a CV from scratch and one-page vs two-page CVs. You can also learn more about the benefits of using Canva for CV design and check out our proven designer CV template.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about what to put on a CV: 1. What is the ideal length for a CV? The ideal length for a CV is typically one to two pages, depending on your level of experience and the specific job you're applying for. 2. How do I tailor my CV to a specific job? To tailor your CV to a specific job, use keywords and phrases from the job description to demonstrate your relevance and qualifications. 3. What is the most important section of a CV? The most important section of a CV is often the professional summary, as it provides a brief overview of your experience, skills, and achievements. 4. How do I optimize my CV for ATS? To optimize your CV for ATS, use relevant keywords and phrases from the job description, and make sure your CV is in a format that can be easily read by the system. 5. Can I use a generic CV template? While generic CV templates can be a good starting point, it's often better to create a custom CV that is tailored to your specific experience and qualifications. For more information on CV design and optimization, check out the Harvard Business Review and Monster career advice center, and consider consulting with a career coach or recruiter, such as those found on SHRM.