The job market in 2026 is busy, competitive, and more digital than ever before. Employers are scanning hundreds of applications in seconds, so your CV must do more than list experience. It must tell your story quickly, show your value clearly, and make hiring managers stop scrolling.
At Keen People, we see thousands of CVs every year, which means we also see the patterns that help candidates succeed. Here is our guide to the latest UK CV tendencies in 2026 and how you can use them to get ahead.
1. Shorter, sharper CVs
Recruiters and hiring managers do not have time for long documents. Two pages remain the golden rule in 2026. If your CV is longer, cut the fluff. Focus on results, impact, and the skills that matter for the role you are targeting.
Tip: If you have 15+ years of experience, summarise early career roles in a few lines and spend more space on recent, relevant achievements.
2. Skills up front
More CVs now start with a “core skills” section right at the top. This gives hiring managers a snapshot of your capabilities before they even look at your job history. Cybersecurity, data analytics, cloud computing, AI, and leadership skills are frequently highlighted, but the same principle works in any industry.
Tip: Align your skills with the job description. Use the same language employers are using.
3. Results, not responsibilities
A big change in 2026 is the move away from task lists. Employers do not want to read what you were responsible for; they want to know what you achieved. That means numbers, outcomes, and real results.
Instead of:
“Responsible for managing a team of five.”
Try:
“Led a team of five, improving project delivery speed by 20%.”
4. Digital-first design
With so many CVs being read by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), the design has to work on screen as much as on paper. Over-styled CVs with complex graphics can get lost in parsing. Simple, clean formatting wins in 2026. Use bold, bullet points, and spacing to guide the reader’s eye.
Tip: Test your CV by uploading it to a job board profile. If the formatting breaks, simplify it.
5. The rise of personal branding
Your CV is now part of a wider picture. Employers often check LinkedIn before they even call for an interview. A growing trend in 2026 is making sure the tone and content of your CV align with your LinkedIn profile. Consistency builds trust.
Tip: Add a one-line personal statement that sums up who you are and what you bring. Think of it as your elevator pitch in writing.
6. Soft skills matter more
Employers are looking for more than technical ability. Adaptability, communication, and collaboration are standing out in UK CVs this year. Candidates who weave soft skills into achievements, not just in a separate section, are making stronger impressions.
Example:
“Collaborated with cross-functional teams to deliver a new data reporting system adopted company-wide.”
7. Video CVs and portfolio links
They are not replacing traditional CVs yet, but video introductions and portfolio links are becoming common in creative, tech, and start-up spaces. Adding a link to a short introduction video can make you memorable. Just keep it professional and under two minutes.
Your CV in 2026 is not just a list of jobs. It is a strategic tool that should show employers why you are the right person, fast. Keep it short, clear, results-driven, and aligned with your online profile.
At Keen People, we help candidates shape CVs that do more than pass the ATS check. They land interviews. If you want to make sure your CV reflects the best of you, we are here to help.
Ready to refresh your CV for 2026? Contact us today.