Many students choose to undertake an English language course as part of their professional development. For some, this may be to prepare for work in a new market, to apply for an international position, or simply to increase their competitiveness in the job market.
How to write a CV
In all of these situations, one essential skill often comes to the forefront: writing an effective Curriculum Vitae (CV). For students producing a CV in a second language, this task can be especially challenging, as it requires both linguistic accuracy and cultural awareness of professional conventions.
A CV is not simply a record of employment and education; it is a professional sales document. Its purpose is to highlight achievements, showcase abilities, and present the applicant as the right person for a particular opportunity. While there are many possible formats, an effective CV is always clear, concise and targeted. Beyond presenting information logically, it must engage the reader and convey individuality in a professional manner.
Structure and clarity
A clear, consistent structure is the foundation of a strong CV. Standard sections typically include a header with contact information, a brief personal profile, key skills, professional experience, education, and any additional information such as languages, certifications, or interests. This logical sequence allows employers to find relevant details easily. Formatting should be consistent throughout, using the same font, spacing and style. Whether the CV is written in the first or third person is less important than maintaining consistency in tone and presentation.
Adaptation and relevance
It is useful for students to maintain a general CV template that can be adapted for different applications. Each job or organisation may emphasise different skills or experience, so tailoring the CV for specific opportunities can make a significant difference. Highlighting the aspects of one’s background that are most relevant to the position demonstrates awareness and effort.
Achievements over duties
When describing professional experience, it is often more persuasive to focus on achievements rather than duties. Instead of listing tasks performed, candidates should describe the outcomes of their work and the impact they made. For instance, rather than writing “Responsible for managing social media accounts,” it is stronger to say “Increased social media engagement by 30% through targeted content strategy.” This approach provides clear evidence of capability and helps the reader understand what has been accomplished.
Concision and accessibility
Recruiters often review many applications, so the most relevant and impressive information should be easy to find. A concise CV — typically no longer than two pages — allows the reader to absorb key details quickly. Short paragraphs, bullet points and active language improve readability. Each sentence should add value and serve a clear purpose. Dense blocks of text or unnecessary detail can distract from the main message.
Language, consistency and key words
Consistency in formatting, punctuation and language style reflects professionalism. Many organisations now use digital systems that scan CVs for keywords related to the job description. Including relevant terminology naturally within the text increases the likelihood of being identified as a strong match. However, this should be done carefully to maintain natural flow and authenticity. Overuse of keywords or formulaic phrases can make a CV appear artificial.
Demonstrating skills through evidence
When describing soft skills, it is important to provide examples rather than general statements. For instance, rather than simply claiming to be “a good communicator,” a student might write “Delivered weekly presentations to clients, contributing to improved project outcomes.” Evidence adds credibility and helps the reader understand the context in which a skill has been developed.
Proofreading and feedback
Finally, a professional CV must be free from grammatical or spelling errors. Proofreading carefully, or asking a teacher or colleague for feedback, can make a decisive difference. Even small mistakes can distract from an otherwise strong application. Reviewing the document aloud or printing a physical copy can help to identify inconsistencies or areas for improvement.
Writing a CV in English is both a linguistic and professional exercise. It requires clarity, accuracy and self-awareness. For students, it is an opportunity not only to demonstrate language proficiency but also to present achievements confidently and effectively. With careful structure, targeted content and attention to detail, a well-crafted CV becomes more than a record of experience — it becomes a persuasive reflection of potential.