Why the Content of Your CV Matters More Than Its Design

When it comes to job hunting, many people spend far too much time worrying about how their CV looks, rather than what it actually says.

Information matters in a CV when it's well structured.

Yes, presentation plays a role – no employer wants to read a document that’s chaotic or hard on the eye – but it’s the content and structure of your CV that truly carry weight. Employers are looking for substance, not style over substance.

First Impressions Go Beyond Design

A smart template might catch someone’s eye for a moment, but if the information within isn’t relevant, clear or tailored, your CV will quickly end up in the "no" pile.

Recruiters and hiring managers often review dozens, sometimes hundreds, of applications. They don’t have the time to admire fonts or colours – they’re scanning for key details that show you can do the job.

Content Shows Your Value

Your CV is essentially your professional story. It tells an employer what you’ve achieved, what you can offer, and why you’re the right fit. Strong content means:

• Clear examples of your skills and accomplishments.

• Achievements that can be backed up with evidence (figures, outcomes, responsibilities).

• A focus on what’s relevant to the role you’re applying for, rather than a laundry list of everything you’ve ever done.

If the words on the page don’t reflect your capability, no amount of stylish design will save you.

Structure Matters More Than Style

Think of your CV like a newspaper article: the most important information should be easy to find, well organised, and concise.

A well-structured CV makes life easier for the person reading it. Employers want to locate your qualifications, work history, and skills quickly – they shouldn’t need to hunt through complicated layouts or unnecessary graphics.

A clear structure typically includes:

• A short professional summary at the top.

• Your key skills, presented in a way that matches the role.

• A reverse-chronological work history with bullet points highlighting impact, not just duties.

• Education and relevant training.

Keeping things simple and orderly shows professionalism and respect for the reader’s time.

Why Looks Come Last

That’s not to say design doesn’t matter at all – a clean, uncluttered CV with consistent formatting is easier to read and presents you well. But design should never overshadow substance. Employers want to see that you can deliver results, not that you can pick an eye-catching template.

If you’re in a creative industry, such as graphic design or marketing, you might demonstrate flair through a portfolio or an additional creative CV. But for most roles, professionalism and clarity are the priorities.

Final Thoughts

When you’re crafting your CV, always remember: it’s what you say, and how you organise it, that matters most. Employers are seeking evidence of your skills and achievements, not a design experiment.

Keep it clear, concise and relevant – and let your experience do the talking.