Structure

Since recruiters cannot afford to spend too much time reading each and every CV, a clear structure and an attractive layout makes your CV stand out in the crowd. No matter what layout you decide to use, it should always be the visualization of a logical and consistent text structure.

Logical text structure

Since consistency and readability go hand in hand in CVs, make sure there is an intuitive logic behind the structure of your CV.

Use logical and familiar headings to subdivide your CV and structure the different items hierarchically. If your experience clearly outdoes your training, don’t hesitate to mention the former first. The same goes for the order within the different sections; if the job ad stresses a specific kind of training, you should highlight that too by giving it first position.

Consistent text structure

Consistency extends to the structure of each item. When describing your experience, for example, always answer the following three question words in the same order: when - what - where.

Experience

2003 - present

Cargo trade manager, Inverness Airport, UK

You can add extra information about your achievements, but the logical structure has to remain intact.

Experience

2003 - present

Cargo trade manager, Inverness Airport, UK

  • Responsibilities: communication with US partners, development of business plan for pan-Atlantic trade, negotiation of international cotracts.
  • Achievements: helped to increase business activity by 11% in one year.
  • Skills: strong communication skills, team leader.