Read the advert as a list of decisions

Do not begin by rewriting your CV. First, read the vacancy once for the whole picture, then a second time to mark what the employer will probably use to compare applicants.

Make four short lists:

  • Daily tasks you would be expected to perform.
  • Essential skills, tools, licences or experience.
  • Useful qualities that are mentioned but may be teachable.
  • Practical conditions such as location, schedule and availability.

Match each requirement to evidence

For every important requirement, write down one honest example from paid work, volunteering, study, community activity or a personal project. Evidence is stronger than an adjective.

Instead of writing “excellent customer service”, explain what you did: “Answered customer questions, handled returns and kept the counter organised during busy periods.” Never add a tool, result or qualification that you cannot explain in an interview.

Rewrite the most visible sections

Update your short profile so it names the role and two or three relevant strengths. Move the most relevant skills and experience higher on the page. You do not need to hide unrelated work; shorten it so the best evidence is easier to find.

Use important words from the advert when they accurately describe your experience. If the advert says “stock counting” and that is what you did, use that phrase. Repeating keywords without evidence makes a CV harder to trust.

Run a final relevance check

Before sending the CV, ask:

  • Can a reader identify my target role quickly?
  • Have I shown evidence for the most important requirements?
  • Are all dates, contact details and qualifications accurate?
  • Is the document easy to scan on a phone or as extracted text?
  • Have I removed sensitive details such as ID and banking numbers?

Take the next step on Jobza

Build a clean version in the Jobza CV Builder, then use the Skill Gap Roadmap to separate demonstrated, claimed and missing skills. Confirm every finding yourself before changing your CV.