In the ever-evolving recruitment landscape, your CV isn’t just a summary of your work history; it’s a strategic marketing document that tells your professional story. In 2026, with hiring markets becoming more competitive and technology playing an even larger role, crafting a CV that resonates with both humans and machines is essential.
Here’s how to ensure your CV stands out this year.
Align your language, skills and achievements to the specific employer’s values and required capabilities; this boosts both ATS matches and recruiter engagement.
Make It Both Human-Friendly and Tech-Friendly
Much like in 2025, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) remain a first stop for many employers, but the expectation now is that your CV reads clearly for people, too. Stick with standard headings and readable layouts to ensure both ATS and recruiters can parse your document easily.
Tip: Use a hybrid structure with skills and achievements up front, followed by a concise work history to balance readability with ATS performance.
Show Adaptability and Creative Problem-Solving
Recruiters in 2026 are placing greater emphasis on adaptability, creative instincts and agility, especially in markets shaped by shifting project needs, AI tools and flexible work patterns. Highlight projects where you pivoted successfully or solved complex problems under tight constraints.
These traits are often better indicators of future success than a long list of tools or technologies.
Highlight AI Fluency and Digital Skills
AI isn’t just a buzzword; it’s becoming a baseline expectation. Candidates who can demonstrate comfort with AI tools, analytics platforms and other digital competencies will have the edge. Whether that’s automating workflows, analysing data, or using tools to enhance productivity, make sure it’s woven into your skill sets and achievements.
A dedicated Digital and AI Skills section can help clarify your proficiency to both ATS and hiring managers.
Prioritise Clear, Measurable Achievements
Across industries, recruiters are placing increasing weight on measurable impact, e.g. what you achieved, not just what you did. Think beyond duties; quantify results where you can. Did you improve a process, increase revenue, cut costs, or lead a high-performing team? Put the numbers front and centre.
This signals your focus on outcomes, a key differentiator in a crowded applicant pool.
Tailor for Roles, Not Just Industries
One size no longer fits all. Instead of keeping one generic CV, create tailored versions that speak directly to the job you’re applying for. Align your language, skills and achievements to the specific employer’s values and required capabilities; this boosts both ATS matches and recruiter engagement.
Leverage Design Thoughtfully (But Sparingly)
Clean, contemporary design still matters, particularly for roles where presentation and communication are part of the job. But balance is key: the design should support content, not overwhelm it. Simple elements like consistent whitespace, clear typography and subtle accent colours can elevate your CV without confusing screening systems.
Save as a PDF to preserve layout across platforms.
Connect Your Digital Footprint
In 2026, recruiters expect to see more than a static document; they want context. Provide links to your:
- LinkedIn profile
- Portfolio or GitHub (where relevant)
- Professional website or project samples
Ensure these platforms are up to date and consistent with your CV, reinforcing your narrative and showing your professional personality.
Reflect Contemporary Work Trends
The market continues to shift with hybrid work, portfolio careers and flexible arrangements becoming commonplace. If you’ve thrived in flexible settings, managing remote projects, cross-functional collaboration, or gig/hybrid roles, include this in your professional summary or experience bullets. This shows not just capability, but contextual relevance to today’s hiring expectations.
Tell a Story that Shows Growth and Purpose
Beyond skills and results, your CV should communicate your career trajectory and professional purpose. A crisp professional summary that ties where you’ve been to where you’re going helps recruiters immediately grasp your value. Focus this section on direction, strengths and quantifiable wins.
Stay Human, Even With AI Tools
AI can help draft, edit and optimise your CV, but authenticity remains crucial. Overly generic language can be spotted and dismissed by recruiters. Use AI as a drafting assistant, then refine with your own voice and real examples. This combination ensures your CV is polished and personal.
Final Thoughts
Your CV in 2026 should be a strategic fusion of clarity, competency and personality. It must work both for screening technology and for the people ultimately making hiring decisions. With thoughtful structure, targeted content and authentic storytelling, your CV won’t just get noticed, it will help you secure the opportunities you’re aiming for.
If you’d like help refining your CV for the current market, the PE Global team are here to support you from layout to content and everything in between.
