Many candidates do not know how to write a CV that effectively «sells» them as top-tier professionals. The modern job market demands a new approach: your CV is now first assessed by the company’s artificial intelligence (smart AI-ATS systems), and only then by a recruiter. The golden rule for a successful application today is mathematical precision, a well-structured context and a complete absence of clichéd phrases. If you’re looking for the answer to how to write a CV that’s guaranteed to get noticed in 2026, this step-by-step guide is designed just for you.

What to include in a CV: essential sections according to the 2026 standard

Modern AI algorithms scan a candidate’s profile in a matter of seconds. To get past this automated filter, a well-structured CV must have a clear hierarchy and include specific, essential sections of information.

1. Work experience: focus on results (Impact) rather than on duties

List your previous jobs in reverse chronological order. Avoid simply listing your duties (for example, “was working on optimisation” or “developed projects”). Instead, use the following formula: Action + Context + Numerical result.

Incorrect: «I managed the sales department and liaised with clients.».
Correct: «Increased sales by 24% over six months thanks to the implementation of a new CRM system and scripts.».

2. Clustering of skills (Hard, Soft & AI Skills)

In 2026, the trend is towards ‘Skills-First Hiring’ (hiring based on skills rather than qualifications). Divide this section into three distinct categories:

Hard skills: Professional tools, programming languages, technology stack.
Soft skills: Adaptability, critical thinking, emotional intelligence.
AI fluency & Remote skills: The ability to work with AI assistants and automation tools, and skills in asynchronous team communication.

3. Key achievements

List your key achievements in a separate sub-section or highlight them at the start of each job description. Use percentages, time saved for the company or budget secured – AI systems are trained to instantly recognise numerical metrics as indicators of success.

4. About yourself in your CV (briefly, to the point and without clichés)

This is a short introductory paragraph (Summary) of up to 3–4 sentences at the very beginning of the document. Avoid «filler» words: «determined», «stress-resistant», «sociable». Please describe which specific business problem you are best at solving.

What a CV should look like: visual trends and AI-ATS requirements

Visual simplicity is the new luxury. Modern employers spend between 6 and 10 seconds on an initial scan of a CV. Furthermore, an overly complex design featuring graphics or icons simply «crashes» the AI parsers on job search websites.

Criteria for flawless formatting:

Readable font: Use clean, sans-serif screen fonts (Inter, Roboto, Calibri or Arial) in a size of 10–12 pt.
A logical single-column structure: Two-column or complex infographic templates are often not recognised by bots. Opt for a simple vertical layout.
No «fluff» and high contrast: black text on a white background is the ideal solution for readability on any device. Remove any unnecessary borders, lines and coloured patches.
Confidentiality of contact details: It is sufficient to provide your name, telephone number, email address, a link to your LinkedIn profile or portfolio, and your city of residence. Your full home address or date of birth in 2026 are considered unnecessary information.

Additional information in the CV: certificates and voluntary work

International certificates, specialist courses and social volunteering are important additional details to include on your CV. They demonstrate your proactivity, commitment to lifelong learning and alignment with modern corporate culture (ESG/sustainability trends).

An important rule: Only include certificates that are relevant to the specific vacancy. Cooking courses won’t help if you’re applying for a role as a marketer or analyst.

No response from companies? It’s time to take action!

If you regularly apply for jobs but don’t receive any replies, it means that your CV is either failing AI filters (due to poor formatting or a lack of the right keywords), or is getting lost amongst the competition. This is a clear sign that you need to update your CV as a matter of urgency.

A well-structured, digitised CV significantly increases your chances of successfully passing both automated and manual screening, helping you stand out from hundreds of other candidates.

Would you like to land your dream job sooner?

Our careers expert will carry out a thorough review of your CV in line with the requirements of the modern job market and the algorithms of 2026. We’ll help you create a final version of your CV that works for you, passes robot checks in a flash and opens the door to new career opportunities!