Skill-based CV format

This dynamic CV format works by highlighting the most relevant skills and experiences that you have gathered throughout your career. A skills-based CV. also sometimes knows as o functional CV, aims to demonstrate the achievements and abilities that you feel make you the ideal candidate for the role. This CV format allows you to evidence your relevant key skills, usually through a series of bullet-pointed statements under each heading.

When should | use a skill-based CV?
Skills-based CVs are often used by job seekers looking to change careers, as the lack of chronology focuses more on transferrable skills than work history. A skills- based approach to writing your CV can also be handy in cases where you've had periods of inactivity, as the emphasis is on your skills and accomplishments rather than a timeline of previous employment.

What does a skills-based CV look like?
Start with your contact details at the top, followed by your profile - this is a concise summary of your relevant qualifications and experience, and also sets out your career objective. Include the most relevant skills to the role you're applying for and use each key skill as a heading, with supporting examples and evidence of that skill. Here's an example:

How to fill in COVID-19 employment gaps

COVID-19 caused many career plans to get disrupted — whether it was due to being unable to work, the lack of internship or volunteering opportunities during lockdowns, or taking the time to rethink your career options. But there’s no need to let that white space daunt you.

Show employers how you spent that time wisely - explain that you used this time away from formal employment to develop your skills. Update your CV with any online courses you enrolled in, as well as webinars, digital conferences, or voluntary work.

Adding keywords to your CV

Now you've chosen the CV format to best sell yourself to potential new employers, there’s a few more things to consider — like the actual words you use. Many companies now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) or Al-based software in their CV screening process, which help recruiters to filter out unsuitable applications. One of the ways ATS software sorts through CVs is by scanning them for keywords, so using relevant keywords in your CV can help get it to the top of the pile.

“It’s a good idea to use the most important keywords at the top of your CV to grab the recruiter’s attention straightaway._”

It's important to tailor your CV with the right keywords for each job. Check the job description carefully for skills and other relevant buzzwords and incorporate them into your CV. Include soft and hard skills as well as certifications. Scan the company's website for additional role-related keywords as well, and if you have skills in experience in those areas, add it in. You should include relevant keywords throughout your CV, but it's a good idea to use the most important keywords at the top of your CV to grab the recruiter’s attention straightoway.

Ready to get started on your CV? We've done the hard work for you — click here to download our free CV template.

If you need help updating your CV or to find out about our latest roles, contact your local Adecco branch and connect with a recruiter today!