In recent years, CVs with design elements and infographics have gained popularity. They certainly look interesting, but do they actually help you land a job in the UK or Europe? The answer is not always clear-cut. Depending on the job you’re seeking, a creative CV might work to your advantage, or it could hinder your chances. Let’s delve into the details to help you decide which type of CV you should use in 2024.
As practice shows, not always. Nevertheless, depending on the job you are seeking, a creative CV can work to your advantage. Let’s delve into the details.
The Evolution of CVs: From Traditional to Creative
Over the past decade, the format of CVs has evolved significantly. Traditionally, CVs were text-heavy documents, focused solely on providing a chronological list of professional experience and education. However, as the job market has become more competitive and diverse, the need to stand out has driven many job seekers, particularly in creative industries, to experiment with different CV formats.
The Rise of Creative CVs
Creative CVs emerged as a response to the increasingly saturated job market. With many applicants possessing similar qualifications and experience, job seekers began to explore ways to differentiate themselves. Creative CVs, which often include design elements, infographics, and even multimedia, quickly gained popularity, especially in fields like marketing, graphic design, and tech startups. Business Insider: What Recruiters Think About Creative CVs.
While these innovative formats can certainly make an impression, they also come with risks. Understanding when and how to use a creative CV is crucial for maximising its effectiveness.
Types of CVs
Traditional CVs
A traditional CV is a standard text document, typically black on white, and is clear and straightforward—much like your passport. This format is ideal for most “non-creative” professions, such as finance, accounting, consulting, and law. These fields prioritize your mathematical, analytical, and other professional skills over visual flair The Guardian: Why CV Design Matters.
Advantages of Traditional CVs:
- ATS Compatibility: Traditional CVs are easily processed by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which are commonly used by large companies to screen candidates. A simple text-based CV is less likely to be rejected by these systems Business Insider: Applicant Tracking Systems and CVs.
- Universal Acceptance: A traditional CV is universally accepted across industries and regions, making it a safe choice for most job applications.
- Time Efficiency: Recruiters can quickly scan traditional CVs, making it easier for them to assess a candidate’s qualifications.
Traditional CV + Portfolio
This is essentially the same as a traditional CV, but with a portfolio provided separately. Many professionals in the UK’s creative industries use a traditional CV but keep a separate portfolio (including projects, clients, designs, etc.) ready. We recommend: Include a link to your portfolio website in your CV or send it as a separate document in PDF format along with your CV.
When to Use a Traditional CV with a Portfolio:
- Creative Roles in Conservative Industries: For roles that require creativity but are within more conservative industries, such as architecture or corporate design, a traditional CV with a portfolio allows you to showcase your creative work without deviating from the expected format.
- Freelancers and Contractors: If you’re a freelancer or contractor, a traditional CV with a portfolio can help demonstrate your range of skills and previous work in a professional, organized manner Forbes: How to Use a Portfolio to Land Freelance Gigs.
Creative CVs
A creative CV is almost as concise as a traditional CV but includes subtle design elements. Examples include:
- Non-traditional layouts with creatively arranged sections.
- Infographics, colorful blocks, icons, and other visual elements.
Benefits of Creative CVs:
- Visual Appeal: A well-designed CV can capture the attention of a recruiter and convey a sense of creativity and innovation, which is especially important in creative roles.
- Personal Branding: Creative CVs allow candidates to showcase their personal brand and differentiate themselves from other applicants.
- Highlighting Key Skills: Creative CVs often use design elements to highlight key skills and accomplishments, making it easier for recruiters to identify a candidate’s strengths at a glance.
Which Type of CV Should I Choose?
Traditional CVs: When to Use Them
Traditional CVs are ideal for “non-creative” professions, where the emphasis is on technical skills and experience. In the UK, a traditional, black-on-white CV is often preferred across industries due to its simplicity, conciseness, and structured format.
Tip: Even in creative industries, it’s advisable to stick with a traditional CV but keep a detailed portfolio ready to showcase your work. This is particularly true for industries like finance, law, or consulting. Effective resume in English (based on our experience of editing 30,000+ CVs)
Creative CVs: When to Use Them
Creative CVs are more suitable for roles in marketing or design (e.g., graphic designers, web designers, marketing strategists). They are also beneficial for those with limited work experience. For job seekers starting their careers, a creative CV can highlight skills more effectively, shifting the focus from a brief work history.
Geographical Considerations
- Scandinavian Countries and Germany: Colorful designs are welcome but should be used sparingly. Remember, a CV is still primarily a professional document Forbes: CV Writing Tips for International Jobs.
- UK: Despite being a creative hub, the UK generally prefers traditional CVs, even for creative roles The Guardian: CV Design for UK Jobs.
- Startups: In startup environments, particularly in cities like London, Berlin, and Amsterdam, creative CVs are often viewed positively. However, it’s crucial not to overdo it. A CV should be visually appealing and interesting but must not take up too much of the recruiter’s time Business Insider: What Recruiters Think About Creative CVs.
Real-life Example: A candidate once submitted a CV that included a mini-quiz and a “Star Wars” themed puzzle, which the recruiter had to solve to understand the candidate’s qualifications. This is a prime example of overdoing it. While creative, the CV became a time-consuming task for the recruiter, which is not ideal BBC: Creative CV Mistakes.
The startup world is a unique environment. Startups in cities like London, Berlin, and Amsterdam often view creative CVs positively. However, it’s crucial not to overdo it. For instance, we heard about a CV that included a mini-quiz or a “Star Wars” themed puzzle, which the recruiter had to solve to understand the candidate’s qualifications. This is a prime example of overdoing it. A CV should be visually appealing and interesting but must not take up too much of the recruiter’s time.
How to Create a Creative CV that works
1. Understand How Recruiters and ATS Work
A study conducted by the American recruitment agency TCG in 2024 shows that 70% of employers still prefer traditional CVs in PDF or Word format, even for creative positions. Only 20% are interested in infographics, about 4% would accept a social media profile, and just 2% are interested in video CVs TCG Study on CV Preferences. Despite their popularity among job seekers, creative CVs don’t necessarily guarantee an interview.
Key reasons why traditional CVs still work best:
- Time Efficiency: Most hiring managers spend only a few seconds scanning each CV. If they can’t quickly see your experience and what you can bring to the company, they’ll move on Glassdoor: How to Make Your CV Stand Out in 2024.
- First Impressions Matter: Even for creative roles, the first person reviewing your CV might be an HR assistant or receptionist. It’s easier for them to quickly scan a well-structured traditional CV than to look through an infographic or watch a video Forbes: CV Writing Tips for International Jobs.
- Simplicity: Graphic elements and imagery can often be unnecessary, confusing, and distracting BBC: Creative CV Mistakes.
An infographic is when a skill is represented visually. For example, a skill level might be shown as a scale made up of various elements. Some candidates use stars, others use circles. I once saw a completely pink CV with a skill level represented by hearts. If you decide to use such elements, consider how clear they are to the recruiter. What does an Excel proficiency of 9 circles out of 12 actually mean? Everyone has different styles, but I recommend thinking carefully about the appropriateness of the creativity you use.
Aleksandra Kosintseva
Our Tip: If you decide to use graphic elements, make sure they are understandable to the recruiter. For instance, what does an Excel skill level of 9 circles out of 12 really mean? Always provide a verbal description of your skill level alongside any visual representation (e.g., proficient, fluent, intermediate).
2. Adapt to Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
Large companies often use ATS to screen candidates. These systems rely on keyword searches to determine if a candidate has the required experience and skills. ATS works best with text-based CVs, so it’s crucial that your creative CV is readable by these systems Business Insider: Applicant Tracking Systems and CVs.
Tips for ATS compatibility:
- Match Keywords: Ensure your keywords align with what the company is looking for. For example, stick to standard terms like ‘people management’, ‘team leadership’, or ‘personnel management’ instead of inventing new ones. ATS won’t understand them Glassdoor: How to Make Your CV Stand Out in 2024.
- Check Text Clarity: Copy your CV text and paste it into a .txt file. If the text appears chaotic, that’s how the system will read it. Ensure your CV is readable before submitting it Forbes: CV Writing Tips for International Jobs.
3. Identify Industry-Standard CVs
Always remember that there are unspoken rules in every industry. What is well-received in one company might not be in another. A young design startup might love your colorful CV, while a well-known Big4 firm will prefer a traditional format The Guardian: CV Design for UK Jobs.
Additional Considerations:
- Job Functionality: Consider the job function when designing your CV. A marketing strategist might benefit from a visually dynamic CV, while a software engineer should emphasize technical skills and experience.
- Company Culture: Research the company culture before submitting your CV. A traditional corporate environment will likely appreciate a more conventional CV, while a startup might welcome creative approaches Forbes: Adapting Your CV to Company Culture.
4. Where to Create a Free Creative CV
Here are some platforms where you can create a creative CV and get a beautiful personal URL for sending to employers and sharing on social media:
- Canva: Ideal for creating a one-page online CV with social media links. You can also track who has viewed your CV Canva: Create an Online CV.
- Slideshare: Designed for presentations but great for online CVs that need to include text, images, and videos. Basic services are free Slideshare: Share Your Presentations.
- VisualCV: Create a one-page online CV with infographics (many design options) based on your LinkedIn profile data VisualCV: Online CV Builder.
The Future of CVs: Trends to Watch in 2024
As the job market continues to evolve, so too will the trends in CV design. Here are some trends to watch out for in 2024:
1. Video CVs
While currently only a small percentage of employers are interested in video CVs, this format is expected to grow in popularity, particularly in creative industries. A video CV allows candidates to showcase their personality, communication skills, and creativity in a way that a traditional or even creative CV cannot Forbes: The Rise of Video CVs.
Pros:
- Personal Connection: Video CVs create a more personal connection with recruiters.
- Demonstrate Skills: Ideal for roles where communication and presentation skills are critical.
Cons:
- Time-Consuming: Creating a polished video CV requires significant time and effort.
- Potential for Bias: Video CVs may unintentionally introduce bias into the hiring process.
2. Interactive CVs
Interactive CVs, which include elements like clickable links, embedded videos, and even mini-games, are another emerging trend. These CVs offer a dynamic way to present information and can be particularly effective for roles in tech or digital marketing Business Insider: Interactive CVs for Tech Jobs.
Pros:
- Engagement: Interactive CVs can engage recruiters in a way that static documents cannot.
- Showcase Skills: Great for showcasing digital skills and creativity.
Cons:
- Compatibility Issues: Not all ATS or recruiters are equipped to handle interactive CVs.
- Time-Intensive: Developing an interactive CV can be resource-intensive.
3. AI-Enhanced CVs
With the rise of AI, some job seekers are beginning to use AI tools to enhance their CVs. These tools can analyze job descriptions and automatically tailor a CV to match the required skills and experience. AI-enhanced CVs can improve keyword optimization and ATS compatibility Forbes: AI in Recruitment.
Pros:
- Improved ATS Compatibility: AI tools can optimize a CV for ATS, increasing the chances of it being shortlisted.
- Personalization: AI can help tailor CVs to specific job applications, making them more relevant.
Cons:
- Over-Reliance: Relying too much on AI may lead to a loss of personal touch and originality.
- Potential Errors: AI-generated content may sometimes include inaccuracies or irrelevant details.
Take-aways
Choosing the right type of CV in 2024 depends on your industry, geographical location, and the specific job you’re targeting. Traditional CVs remain the standard for many professions, while creative CVs can help you stand out in the right contexts. However, always consider how your CV will be received by both humans and Applicant Tracking Systems. Additionally, stay informed about emerging trends, such as video and interactive CVs, as they may become more relevant depending on your industry.
By following these tips, you can craft a CV that not only looks good but also works effectively in getting you that job interview.
