Tailoring your CV in English to every job ad means adapting your experience, your skills and your professional profile to the specific requirements of each role. If you are wondering how to tailor your CV in English to each vacancy, remember that including the keywords from the ad can help you get past the ATS that many companies use to filter applications. Read on…
Sending the same CV to every vacancy can leave your application unnoticed. Tailoring your CV in English not only improves your chances of being considered, it also shows professionalism and attention to detail. In this article you will learn how to adapt your CV effectively for each position, highlighting your strengths and aligning them with what the company needs.
Why tailoring your CV in English matters
When you apply for a job in an international environment, recruiters expect a CV that speaks directly to the competencies that matter. A generic document may show experience, but not your fit for a specific role.
Tailoring your CV in English allows you to:
- Highlight the key skills the employer is looking for.
- Align your experience with the job description.
- Improve your chances of getting through automated filters or ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems).
For example, if you are applying for a digital marketing role, focusing your CV on online campaign projects and performance metrics will make your profile far more appealing than simply listing general experience.
Step 1: Analyse the ad and the requirements of the role
Before touching your CV, read the ad closely:
- Identify the competencies and keywords mentioned.
- Note the minimum experience required and the results expected.
- Look into the company culture so you can adjust the tone of your CV.
This review lets your CV in English reflect exactly what the company is looking for. If the ad mentions “project management skills”, for instance, make sure your relevant projects are clearly highlighted.
Step 2: Adapt your professional profile and summary
The “professional summary” is the first thing a recruiter will see. Tailor it to:
- Include your area of specialisation.
- Highlight achievements directly related to the role.
- Show your unique value proposition.
A practical example:
Generic: “Marketing professional with 5 years of experience.”
Tailored: “Digital marketing specialist with 5 years leading social media campaigns that increased engagement by 40%.”
This small change conveys concrete results that match the vacancy.
Step 3: Select relevant achievements and experience
Not every experience needs to be on your CV. Prioritise:
- Experience that aligns with the job description.
- Projects with measurable results.
- Roles that demonstrate the key skills the company is looking for.
If you are applying for an international role, including quantifiable results such as “increased sales by 20% in six months” or “managed a team of 8 across three countries” adds value and credibility.
Preparing this documentation takes time and concentration. During long days at the computer, a massage gun helps release the tension that builds up in your neck and back between writing sessions.
Step 4: Fine-tune keywords and format
Many CVs pass through automated systems that look for keywords. To optimise your CV in English:
- Reproduce the exact terms from the ad, but do it naturally.
- Use a clean, professional format: clear sections, short bullet points, no excess of graphics.
- Avoid literal translations; use professional terms that are recognised in English.
To go deeper into strategies for professional preparation in English, you can read our guide on how to succeed in an interview in English, which complements your CV work with how you present yourself in person.
Step 5: Review it and ask for feedback
Before you send your CV:
- Check for grammar and spelling mistakes.
- Make sure the most relevant information comes first.
- Ask a colleague or mentor to review the final version.
And if you are considering studies or certificates in English to strengthen your profile, knowing the differences between exams such as TOEFL and IELTS can help you choose the right one: TOEFL vs IELTS: working or studying abroad.
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Frequently asked questions
Should I translate my Spanish CV literally into English?
No. It is better to adapt your CV to the international professional context, using professional terms and relevant metrics.
How much should I tailor my CV for each vacancy?
Focus on highlighting the experience and skills the company is genuinely looking for; there is no need to rewrite the whole thing.
Does the visual format of a CV in English matter?
Yes. A clean design, clear sections and concise bullet points make it easier to read and improve your chances of being shortlisted.
Tailoring your CV in English is an investment that improves your job prospects and shows your professionalism. If you want to refine your profile and your readiness for international settings, ALOS offers language training and professional support tailored to your needs. Get in touch with us for personal guidance and give your career a boost.