What Is the Best CV Layout in 2023 UK? (Find Out What Works!)

If you're job hunting in the UK in 2023, chances are, you’ve heard a lot about the perfect CV layout. But let’s be real—what is the best layout, and how do you choose the right one for you? Well, that’s what I’m here to break down for you.

Let me start by saying, there’s no one-size-fits-all. The "best" layout depends on your experience, industry, and personal style. But don't worry, I've got your back! I've been through this whole process a few times myself, and let me tell you—it can be a bit overwhelming. So, let’s dive in.

Why Does CV Layout Matter?

Honestly, it’s easy to think that content is king when it comes to your CV, but layout is just as important. Think about it: hiring managers have seconds to skim through your CV. If it’s cluttered or hard to read, it could get tossed aside without a second thought. (Ugh, frustrating, right?)

I remember the first time I applied for a job after university. I had this long list of internships, volunteer work, and skills, but when I showed my first draft to a friend, they were like, "Dude, I can’t even read this." Turns out, my layout was all over the place. But after some tweaks (and lots of Googling), I learned how to make it cleaner and more reader-friendly—and it worked!

So, let’s explore what makes a 2023 UK CV layout stand out.

1. Simplicity is Key

When it comes to the layout, less is more. Go for a clean, professional design. Use a simple, easy-to-read font like Arial or Calibri. Avoid fancy fonts that might look cool but end up making you look unprofessional.

Margins and spacing are huge, too! Too much clutter, and your CV will look like a jumbled mess. Too little, and it might appear empty and underwhelming. You want to strike a balance, like a well-planned playlist—nothing too much, nothing too little.

Also, be mindful of font size. A size 12 font is usually the sweet spot for readability. If you go too small, no one’s going to squint to read your skills.

2. Section Order is Crucial

In 2023, the hiring process is fast-paced. Recruiters often scan CVs quickly, so you need to prioritize the most important information. Here’s the order I recommend:

1. Contact Information: This sounds obvious, but I can’t tell you how many CVs I’ve seen with no contact details (seriously, don’t do that).
2. Personal Statement/Objective (Optional): A brief 2-3 sentence statement summarizing your goals and what you can offer. Keep it punchy, not a life story.
3. Work Experience: Start with your most recent job and work backwards. Keep it concise but don’t be afraid to show off your achievements.
4. Skills: Highlight relevant skills—hard skills (like software proficiency) and soft skills (like communication). Show how they make you the perfect fit for the role.
5. Education: If you’re a recent graduate, place this section higher. If you’ve been in the workforce a while, move it towards the bottom.
6. Additional Information (Optional): Languages, certifications, interests, etc. If they’re relevant, include them!

I’ll admit, I wasn’t always clear on what to prioritize. In the past, I would shove everything in, thinking "the more the better." But nah, it just made things look messy. A clear structure will make your CV much easier to read—and give you a higher chance of landing the job.

3. Use Bullet Points, Not Paragraphs

One of the biggest mistakes I see (and did myself at first) is writing long paragraphs under each job role. Let me tell you, recruiters hate that. They want to see your accomplishments in easy-to-digest chunks.

Use bullet points to break down your responsibilities and achievements. Not only does this make your CV more visually appealing, but it also helps to highlight your key strengths. For example:

• Increased sales by 25% in the first quarter of 2023 through strategic outreach.
• Managed a team of 5 in the launch of a new product line.

See the difference? Action verbs like "increased" or "managed" make a much bigger impact than generic phrases. Trust me on this one!

4. Make It ATS-Friendly

Here’s the deal: Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are now being used by a lot of companies to filter out CVs. These systems scan for keywords relevant to the job, so make sure your CV is ATS-friendly.

What does that mean for you? Well, instead of fancy formatting or images (which ATS can’t read), focus on keywords that match the job description. If the job ad mentions "customer service" or "project management," be sure those terms appear in your CV—especially in your skills and experience sections.

I remember the first time I heard about ATS, I had no idea what it was. But once I figured it out, I started tweaking my CV to include more relevant terms. Suddenly, I was getting more calls for interviews. Funny how that works!

5. Design – Keep It Simple

While the layout should be clean and simple, don’t be afraid to add a touch of personality. For example, if you're applying for a design role, feel free to use a subtle colour scheme or unique headers. But for most industries, stick to black and white with a touch of professionalism.

I’ve seen some CVs that were almost too flashy, and trust me, that’s not the vibe you want. Stick to a subtle, professional design and make sure the focus is always on your experience and skills.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the best CV layout in 2023 UK isn’t about being fancy or flashy—it’s about being clear, professional, and tailored to the job you’re applying for. Use a clean design, prioritize the right sections, and make sure it’s ATS-friendly. And honestly, don’t overthink it. Once your CV is well-structured and easy to read, it’s your skills and experience that will really shine.

If you follow these tips, you’re already on the right path. So, go ahead, tweak that CV, and get ready for the interviews to start rolling in. Good luck!

Got any CV tips or questions? Let me know!

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