How to Write a CV in English: Format, Tips and Example

Your CV (or résumé) is often the first thing an employer sees. Recruiters may spend only a short time scanning it before deciding whether to read further. If you are applying for jobs in English, whether abroad, at an international company or remotely, your CV needs to be clear, well-organised and written in professional English.

In this guide, you will learn the standard English CV format, what to write in each section, strong action verbs, a short example and the most common mistakes non-native speakers make.

CV vs Résumé: What's the Difference?

In the UK, Europe and many other countries, the word CV is used for a job application document of about two pages. In the US and Canada, the same document is usually called a résumé and is often one page. Academic CVs can be longer. Always follow the norms of the country or company you are applying to.

Standard English CV Format

1. Contact details

Full name, phone number (with country code), professional email address, city and country, and a LinkedIn profile if you have one. In the UK and US, you usually don't include a photo, date of birth or marital status.

2. Professional summary

Three or four lines describing who you are, your key experience and what you offer.

Results-driven digital marketing specialist with 4 years of experience in social media and paid advertising. Increased online sales by 35% for an e-commerce brand. Skilled in Google Analytics, content strategy and team collaboration.

3. Work experience

List jobs in reverse chronological order (newest first). For each job, include the job title, company, location, dates and 3–5 bullet points showing achievements, not just duties.

• Weak: "Responsible for social media."

• Strong: "Grew Instagram followers from 5,000 to 40,000 in 12 months."

4. Education

Degree, university, city and graduation year. Include relevant courses or honours if you have little work experience.

5. Skills

Group them: technical skills, software, and languages (for example, "English – C1 (IELTS 7.5)").

6. Additional sections

Certificates, projects, volunteering, awards or publications, but only if they are relevant.

Strong Action Verbs

• Leadership: led, managed, supervised, coordinated

• Results: increased, reduced, improved, achieved

• Creation: developed, designed, launched, created

• Communication: presented, negotiated, trained, wrote

Start each bullet point with an action verb and use the past tense for previous jobs.

Common CV Mistakes

• Writing in full sentences with "I": Use short bullet points instead ("Managed a team of 6").

• Listing duties, not achievements: Add numbers and results.

• Too long: Keep it to 1–2 pages for most jobs.

• Unprofessional email: Use your name, not a nickname.

• Spelling and grammar errors: Proofread carefully. See common grammar mistakes learners make.

• One CV for every job: Adapt your summary and skills to each job description.

Formatting Tips

• Use a clean, simple font and clear headings.

• Keep margins and spacing consistent.

• Save and send as a PDF unless asked otherwise.

• Name the file professionally: "FirstName_LastName_CV.pdf".

Complete Your Application

Most applications need a cover letter too. Read how to write a job application letter in English, and prepare for the interview with our guide to answering "Tell me about yourself".

Prepare for English Interviews on EngoTalk

A strong CV gets you the interview; confident English gets you the job. On EngoTalk, you can practise interview questions with tutors on live 1-on-1 video calls. Start practising now.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should an English CV be?

Usually one to two pages. In the US, one page is common for early-career candidates.

Should I put a photo on my CV?

In the UK, US and Canada, usually not. In some other countries it is common, so check local norms.

Should I write my CV in the first person?

No. Use short bullet points without "I", such as "Led a team of 5".

How do I show my English level on a CV?

Use a recognised level or test score, for example "English – C1" or "IELTS 7.0".