The tech job search process starts with your CV. A well-written CV can be the gateway to your dream role, so why not get it right? The time you invest into polishing your CV to perfection will pay off in heaps. 

Have you heard of the six-second scan? You have between 6 and 30 seconds to impress with your CV so make it count.  

With countless online resources, it’s hard to cut through the noise and find the advice that is most relevant to you. We’ve compiled a quick list of do’s and don’ts to help you write an impressive tech-focused CV: 

1. Personal profile  

Do’s:  

• Tailor your profile to the role you’re applying for 

• Outline your current situation and mention your long-term goals  

• Indicate your availability to start 

Don’ts: 

• Write a generic/vague profile 

• Repeat what you wrote in your cover letter 

• Use industry jargon 

2. Work history 

Do’s:  

• Add a short description of the organisations you’ve worked at and roles you’ve undertaken 

• Explain gaps in your work history 

• End each section with a summary of your biggest achievements 

Don’ts:  

• Limit yourself - a 1-page CV is a myth  

• Focus on your past responsibilities. Instead, write about your accomplishments 

• Waste valuable space on irrelevant work experience  

3. Education 

Do’s: 

• Insert relevant tech modules you’ve undertaken 

• Write about what skills you gained from your education 

• Include information about your accomplishments and final grades 

Don’ts: 

• Expand too much on extra-curricular activities if they are not of relevance 

4. Structure 

Do’s: 

• After your personal profile, add a section summarising your top skills and industry knowledge 

• Use bullet points to make your CV easy to read and follow 

• Title your CV with your profession e.g. SAP S/4HANA Consultant or Cloud Engineer

Don’ts: 

• Overcomplicate with colourful and creative design 

• Use long sentences with complex structures. Simplicity is king 

5. Style 

Do’s: 

• Project a professional tone 

• Use vivid and engaging language  

Don’ts: 

• Don’t use too much jargon  

• Avoid spelling mistakes at all costs 

Please visit our blog page for more career advice and tech industry insight.