Modern CV Trends: What Employers Are Looking for in 2024

It’s 2024, and the job market is evolving fast. If you're dusting off your CV or starting from scratch, it’s important to understand what employers are looking for this year. Gone are the days when a plain black-and-white list of jobs and skills would do the trick. Today’s employers expect more from a CV—and it’s about more than just what you can do.

1. Tailored CVs Are a Must

First things first—your CV can’t be generic anymore. In 2024, a "one-size-fits-all" CV won’t make the cut. Employers want to see that you’ve put effort into customising your CV for the specific job you’re applying for. It’s not just about plugging in the company name or job title either.

Instead, focus on matching your skills and experiences to the exact requirements of the role. Scan through the job listing and highlight keywords they’ve used, then make sure these appear naturally throughout your CV. For instance, if the job asks for strong project management experience, make sure you emphasise any project management software you’ve used or projects you’ve led successfully.

Ask yourself: "Does my CV scream 'I’m perfect for this job'?" If not, it’s time to go back and make sure it does. If you’re struggling with this, there are experts who can help you. Check out https://cvexperts.com/ and the service they provide. Maybe it’s time to hire a pro for CV writing assistance. 

2. Skills-Based CVs Are on the Rise

It’s no longer enough to just list out your past jobs. Employers are increasingly interested in what specific skills you bring to the table, especially transferable ones. That’s why many job seekers are shifting to skills-based or functional CVs.

This style focuses more on your abilities and less on the chronology of your job history. Think of it as presenting your strongest assets first. For example, if you’re applying for a role that requires creative thinking, you might have a section titled “Key Skills” near the top of your CV, where you bullet point your ability to generate innovative ideas, solve problems creatively, and adapt to new challenges.

This approach is great if you’re shifting careers, have gaps in your work history, or want to place emphasis on skills rather than specific job titles. It allows employers to see at a glance what you’re good at, without having to comb through job descriptions.

3. Soft Skills Take Centre Stage

While technical expertise and qualifications are still important, 2024 is the year where soft skills really shine. Employers are looking for well-rounded candidates who not only have the knowledge but also the ability to work well in a team, communicate effectively, and handle challenging situations with ease.

Don’t just list “communication” or “leadership” as buzzwords. Be specific. If you’re great at teamwork, mention a situation where you collaborated to achieve something big. If problem-solving is your strength, describe a time when you came up with a creative solution to a tricky problem.

Employers want to see how these soft skills have played out in real-world scenarios, so take a little time to show them how your personality and approach can be an asset.

4. Achievements Over Responsibilities

Another shift in CV writing for 2024 is the focus on achievements rather than just responsibilities. Employers want to know what you’ve accomplished, not just what you were supposed to do.

Think about it this way: Rather than writing “Responsible for managing a team,” you could say, “Led a team of 10 to exceed quarterly sales targets by 15%.” See the difference? The first one tells them what you were meant to do, while the second one shows that you went above and beyond.

Wherever possible, try to quantify your achievements. Numbers and statistics instantly make your accomplishments more tangible. Did you increase revenue? How much by? Did you help boost productivity? What was the improvement? If you can, include these kinds of metrics to help potential employers see the real impact you’ve made.

5. Visual CVs: A Modern Touch

CV design is no longer restricted to the plain and simple. Visual CVs are becoming more popular, especially in creative industries. A visually appealing CV can help you stand out, provided it’s done professionally.

Consider incorporating a splash of colour (nothing too bold, though), neat formatting, and clear section dividers. Infographics can work well to illustrate things like skills or achievements. However, it’s important not to overdo it—your CV still needs to be readable and easy to follow.

That being said, the use of colour and design elements should only be used if appropriate for your industry. If you’re in a creative field like marketing, graphic design, or media, a modern design can set you apart. However, for more conservative industries like finance or law, sticking to a clean, minimalist layout might be a safer bet.

6. Digital Competence is Crucial

In today’s tech-driven world, having strong digital skills is non-negotiable. Employers want to know that you’re comfortable using a variety of digital tools, regardless of your role or industry. Whether it’s proficiency in a CRM system, experience with social media management platforms, or even basic data analysis, showing your digital competence can give you an edge.

Make sure to include relevant software and tools that you’ve mastered, particularly if they’re industry-specific. For instance, a marketer should highlight knowledge of SEO tools, while an accountant might want to mention experience with specific accounting software.

The Takeaway

Your CV is still the most important tool in your job hunt, but it needs to evolve with the times. In 2024, employers expect customisation, a focus on skills (both hard and soft), and proof of your achievements. They also value modern design in some industries and want to see that you’re comfortable in a digital-first world.

So, is your CV ready for the year ahead? Take a little time to ensure it ticks all the boxes and puts your best foot forward. After all, a well-prepared CV can be the difference between getting that interview or getting overlooked.