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Step-by-Step: How to Check Your CV Against a Job Description

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Step-by-Step: How to Check Your CV Against a Job Description

1. Print or Highlight the Job Description

Break the job description into key sections:

  • Responsibilities

  • Required skills

  • Qualifications or experience

  • Desirable qualities

Make a list of repeated phrases and key action words. These are your targeting clues.

2. Compare Against Your CV Line-by-Line

Does your CV reflect what the employer is asking for?
Ask yourself:

  • Have I clearly shown that I have done the key tasks listed?

  • Have I used similar terminology (without copying word-for-word)?

  • Are my achievements and experience relevant to this particular role?

If you’re applying for a marketing role but your CV talks only about admin tasks, it’s time to refocus the content.

3. Use the Same Language (Where It’s Genuine)

If the job ad says they want someone with “stakeholder engagement” skills and you’ve done this, use that exact phrase. Employers and ATS often scan for these keywords.

4. Move Relevant Info Higher Up

Don’t bury your most relevant experience halfway down the page. Put it up top — especially in your personal profile and key skills section.

5. Remove Irrelevant Content

Hiring managers don’t want your life story. If experience or skills aren’t relevant to the role, trim them back or leave them out entirely. Focus on relevance over volume.

What If You’re Not Sure Where You’re Going Wrong?

Many professionals struggle to be objective about their own CV. That’s where an expert review can make all the difference.

I offer a CV Evaluation & Feedback Service — a fast, professional CV critique that identifies what’s working, what isn’t, and how to fix it.

As an MCIPD-qualified HR professional with 20+ years’ experience, I understand exactly what hiring managers and recruiters look for. I’ll check your CV against your target role and provide clear, tailored feedback within 48 hours.

✔ Does your CV make an impact in 60 seconds?
✔ Are there red flags you’re not seeing?
✔ Is your profile helping — or holding you back?

For just £30, you’ll receive a detailed written report outlining all this and more — helping you create a job-winning CV that aligns with your ideal role.

👉 Learn more about the CV Evaluation Service here

Final Thoughts

Checking your CV against the job description isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s essential. Every job is different, and your CV needs to reflect that if you want to stand out.

If you’re still not getting interviews, don’t leave it to chance. Get your CV reviewed by an HR professional who knows how to position your strengths for the right audience.

Take control of your job search. Make your CV work harder — and smarter — for you.

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