Prepare a UK CV and match it to a real job advert

Build an accurate CV, set meaningful job preferences and review every application before sharing it.

By the Gryffin Work team · Content reviewed 2026-10-15

Use the advert as a checklist

Read the duties and essential criteria before writing. Make a short list of evidence you can honestly provide for the role. A general CV can be a starting point, but the final version should explain your relevant experience for this vacancy.

Keep the core sections clear

Use contact details, a short introduction, experience, education and relevant skills. The National Careers Service explains these sections and adapting their order. Keep dates consistent, use readable headings and describe what you actually did rather than copying a job title.

Complete your Gryffin Work preferences

Your CV and your work preferences serve different purposes. Experience supports an application; preferred roles, location, salary, hours, work mode and contract help narrow recommendations. Select constraints that reflect what you can accept, then read the fit explanation.

Review a draft before using it

Check every employer name, qualification, date, claim and contact detail. A generated draft can be incomplete and must not invent evidence. If the employer asks for an application form or supporting statement, follow that instruction instead of sending an unrelated document.

Know when information is shared

Saving your CV is not the same as submitting it. For direct adverts, the application action states which information will be shared with that employer. For external adverts, check the original destination and its application process.

Keep a record of the next step

Save the vacancy and record whether you prepared, submitted or received a response. A saved opportunity is not a submitted application. Check the final document after downloading or printing and confirm that the advertised deadline has not passed.

Recruitment sources to check

National Careers Service: how to write a CV