Do you find yourself asking Google "how to write a tech C.V."?

In a competitive UK job market, having a strong, well-crafted C.V. is essential to standing out from the crowd.

And as tech recruiters, we understand what will not only highlight your skills and experience, but will also showcase your suitability for a company, and the individual requirements each role brings.

Crafting a C.V. that works for you and the industry will require careful consideration of industry trends, a structured format, emphasis on achievements, transferable skills, customisation for specific job applications, and the inclusion of tech-specific keywords. By following these best practices, and confirming your experience for the essential parts of a role, you'll be well-positioned to make a positive impression on UK employers, and land your dream tech job. In our article, we will take you through these practices and our tips of writing a winning C.V.

TRIA’s tips:

• Understand tech industry trends:

Before diving into the writing, it's crucial to understand the current trends and demands of the UK tech industry, and how these could be relevant to the role you are applying for. Start by researching the skills, the technologies, and the job roles that are in high demand. Then, tailor your C.V. accordingly. Being sure to highlight how any relevant industry trends would translate to your own experience, as this will demonstrate your up-to-date knowledge and make your knowledge more appealing to UK employers.

• Structure your resume appropriately:

Do you know what the preferred C.V. format is?

Depending on your location, typically a reverse-chronological structure is the standard. Starting with a concise summary, or professional profile, that highlight your key skills and achievements. Follow this with your work experience, emphasising your most relevant roles and responsibilities, as well as showcasing your education, certifications, any relevant qualifications, and your technical skills/tools you are proficient in. Finally, consider the document type you are sending, and ensure that it displays properly and it accessible on all devices.

• Tailor your C.V. for specific job applications:

Customise your application for each role by aligning your skills and experience with the specific needs of the company. Review the job description carefully and modify your experience to feature your most relevant qualifications. This focused approach will demonstrate your genuine interest and suitability for the position, increasing your chances of securing an interview and progressing above other applicants.

• Showcase achievements and impact:

Rather than simply listing your responsibilities, try focusing on demonstrating your achievements and (more importantly) the impact you made in your previous roles. Using quantifiable metrics and specific examples that showcase your contributions is what will get employers attention. Leaders today value candidates who can drive results and make a tangible impact on business outcomes, and it’s always easier imagine someone doing that when you understand what they’re capable of. 

Once you have outlined this, be sure to include your transferable skills. Identify what you've acquired throughout your career, or through education, and show how they are applicable to the roles you're pursuing. Emphasise adaptability, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and strong communication. All are highly valued tech sector skills and will reassure employers you will fit well into the team and company culture.

• Include keywords and relevant language:

Many UK employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter resumes based on specific keywords. To increase your resume's chances of passing through ATS screenings, incorporate relevant tech-specific keywords throughout your document. Use industry-specific terminology, tools, programming languages, and methodologies to demonstrate your expertise.

Ensure your C.V. is crafted for success

Remember, the UK tech industry is highly dynamic, so continuously updating and refining your C.V. will ensure you stay ahead of the competition, and don't miss your next big opportunity.