It’s essential to give your CV a refresh every now and again, whether it’s to change the layout, update your details, or match it with your LinkedIn profile. Almost everyone will realise the importance of having a near-perfect CV; whether you’re a recent graduate looking for your first role, a student planning for the future, or a professional seeking a career change, it’s essential this document reflects a number of important facts about yourself.

For those who have been in the job market for a while or are applying for a range of jobs, it’s also a good idea to refresh your CV every now and again, especially in the unfortunate event you aren’t having much success. Alternatively, if you haven’t changed roles or received any new qualifications or accolades for some time, a refresh could breathe some much-needed life into the document.

Refresh your CV with our guide.

Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Consider starting anew

In some cases, a quick refresh might not be enough to bring your CV up to the standards expected by recruiters. Alternatively, it may have been a while since you last applied for a job, leaving your details out of date or irrelevant. This also gives you the chance to try out a number of new ideas before settling on a final copy, such as changing the layout completely or updating your reference list. Have you met someone new who could better represent your achievements in the workplace?

Proofread the result!

At the very least, you should be taking the chance to refresh your CV with a proofread each time you make any changes or before submitting for a position. This is especially important considering career advisor TheLadders discovered just how little time some recruiters spend with each CV they inspect. According to the firm, many hiring managers are able to make a decision within six to seven seconds of opening an application. With CVs being subjected to such quick scrutiny, it’s essential that you’ve dotted your i’s and crossed your t’s in all the right places.

Check your digital CV at the same time

Ever wondered about a digital CV? LinkedIn revolutionised professional networking, offering a global platform with 1 billion members. It’s not just for connecting; it’s your online CV. Keep it aligned with your resume for a consistent professional image. Stay updated and find new connections.

Looking for more advice? Download our latest CV Guide.

At Talent, we’re about more than finding you your next role or assignment. We’re committed to empowering you in many other ways that will support your career, wellbeing, and lifestyle. If you’re looking for a role in the tech, transformation or beyond, have a look at our jobs board.