How to Create a Visually Stunning CV

If you’re struggling to find a job, one great way to boost your CV is to simply give it a makeover. Putting the right information and structuring your skills and experience properly on your CV is crucial, but what many people fail to think about is the way it all looks when it comes together.

First impressions are everything, and the way your resume looks to a recruiter when they first open it up matters more than you think.

Here are a few tips to make a visually stunning CV.

Use the Right Online Tools

First of all, stop trying to design a beautiful resume on documentation and writing programmes. Find an online tool that will allow you to easily design something beautiful using templates or easy-to-use design tools. 

Once you’re happy with the design, make sure to convert the file with an online PNG maker to make it easier for recruiters to open and view your CV. 

Design In Line With Your Field

Make sure to think about how a CV belonging to someone at the very top of your field might look. Keep in mind that a CEO’s resume should look pretty different from the CV of a kindergarten teacher or a graphic designer.

Think about whether or not you want some colour and creativity in there, or if simple, bold and highly professional is the right way to go. You’re allowed to think outside the box, but try to fit the bill to some extent. 

Keep It Simple

Even if you decide to show your fun and creative side in your CV, remember that simplicity is key. This applies to both the design and the content and information you choose to include.

If your CV looks overly busy or is too long and filled up with a clutter of information and different design elements, it can be overwhelming to look at and might immediately put the recruiter off reading it. 

Use a Legible Font

Using the right font for a CV is important. Sometimes, people get carried away with fancy fonts and curly, cursive writing, but this is not the time or place for calligraphy.

Instead stick with basic, professional and legible fonts. Choose only one font to work with, or two at the most if you want to make your headings and subheadings a little more interesting. Keep your font sizes and colours the same too to make sure everything looks cohesive. 

Add a Professional Photograph

A good idea is to add a picture of yourself to your CV, so that recruiters can get a better idea of who you are. 

However, make sure not to add a picture of yourself at the Christmas dinner table from four years ago. Instead, try to take a professional picture to add to your CV, and keep it small too.

Focus On Small Details

Finally, don’t forget to look at the finer details on your CV.

Ensure that your margins all align, use borders or text boxes to demarcate different sections, and keep things neat and tidy with bullet points.