How to write a CV profile section (with examples)

Every CV needs to start with a strong CV profile section introducing the you to the hiring manager. It’s often considered the hardest part of writing a CV, as it creates that all-important first impression. The profile needs to summarise what you can offer to the business in a concise, high-impact way, that encourages the recruiter to read on, find out more about you, and – hopefully – progress your CV to the next stage of recruitment. 

Where to position your CV profile section

As your elevator pitch, the CV profile needs to be right at the top of the first page of your CV, immediately below your name and contact details. When they've read this summary, the hiring manage should have a good idea whether it's worth their time to read the rest of the CV, which will expand on the key points.

The Dos and Don'ts of writing a CV profile section

The profile needs to capture the highlights of your career in just four or five lines, so it needs to be focused. Stick to these guidelines to keep it on track:

DO

• DO state what you do: if you’re planning on continuing along your current career path, the easiest way to do this is by giving your job title

• DO explain the level you’re working at: for example, assistant, team leader or Board executive 

• DO include your industry or sector: show that you have the background they need and will hit the ground running 

• DO explain what you specialise in: a focused CV is generally more successful than a generic one

• DO give an example of your main achievements and successes: this is an easy way to show that you’ll add value to their business

• DO identify your USP, or Unique Selling Point: what can you offer that other candidates can’t?

• DO align the profile with the person requirements specified in the job advert: this enables the recruiter to see how you can tick their boxes 

• DO use industry- and role-specific keywords – but avoid jargon: this will help your CV to be found easily if an employer is searching their database of CVs

• DO hint at your career aspirations

You don’t need to include ALL of these suggestions in your CV profile – just choose the ones most relevant to you, your career and your target role. 

DON’T

Don't make these common mistakes when crafting your CV profile:  

•  DON’T use generic phrases and cliches: this includes saying that you’re enthusiastic, punctual, hardworking, and work well in a team and independently, and so on - it adds no value and makes you sound the same as everyone else

• DON’T summarise your entire career: that’s what the Professional Experience section of the CV is for and you’re wasting everyone’s time by repeating it - not to mention giving prime position to historic and irrelevant detail

• DON’T say what you want from your next role or employer: show instead what you can offer them

• DON’T write more than around 5 lines: a wall of text is off-putting and hard to read on a screen, so make it easy for the recruiter by summarising key points rather than detailing your entire life story

• DON’T write using first person pronouns: usually, CVs are written without pronouns – it’s a style that takes a little getting used to but it sounds so much more professional and avoids constant repetition of “I”, “me” and “my”

• DON’T emphasise your early career over your recent career: is your military experience really that relevant if you left the army 20 years ago?

• DON’T omit the profile section completely: it may be hard to write, but it’s your introduction to the recruiter and your opportunity to impress at first glance

Simple formula for a CV profile

If you're really stuck, use this three-sentence formula for your CV profile section:

1. Who you are and what you specialise in (for example, "A Sales Manager specialising in performance cars")
2. The key skills you have relevant to your target role (for example, "Confident negotiating finance, building trusting relationships with high profile customers and upselling add-on features")
3. How you can make an impact within the business (for example, "Consistently exceeds targets and rated as Top Sales Manager for 3 consecutive years, having closed multi-million-pound sales"

CV profile section examples

Take a look at these CV profile examples for inspiration:

CV profile example for an Engineer 

An accomplished Electronic Engineer specialising in autonomous mobile robots and embedded systems. Confident developing software and algorithms that drive innovation, increase efficiency and solve challenges. Collaborates effectively with multidisciplinary colleagues and negotiates successfully with clients to agree solutions. Committed to delivering systems in line with regulations. 

CV profile example for a senior manager

An award-winning General Manager, with expertise in implementing best practice in the public transport sector. Recognised as an approachable and effective leader, who can engage staff and foster constructive, collaborative relationships at all levels. Able to plan and prioritise resources, manage performance, minimise operational costs and take difficult decisions to enable businesses to achieve their operational, strategic and financial targets. Combines sound financial acumen with a proven track record of excellent industrial relations and trade union negotiations.

CV profile example for a senior executive

A commercially and financially astute Aviation Safety Expert, with a strong background in maintaining compliance and governance standards. Possesses both operational and strategic expertise at a senior executive level. Confident controlling multi-million-pound budgets and prioritising conflicting demands to consistently achieve statutory deadlines and financial targets. Sets high expectations of staff and can negotiate and challenge at all levels.

CV profile example for a career change

A creative and organised professional, with a lifelong interest in global development issues, sustainability and the environment. Recognised as a respected and democratic leader, who supports and nurtures colleagues and appreciates the contributions of others. Builds positive relationships whilst retaining the ability to hold difficult conversations and challenge where needed. Quick to learn and keen to progress. Looking forward to transitioning from teaching into a global development role that values integrity, ethics and a growth mindset. 

Top tip:  For help with other parts of your CV, take a look at the Ultimate CV Writing Guide for UK Professionals or download a free template.

Further help with your CV profile

Think of the CV profile section as your elevator pitch – you have just a few sentences to impress a recruiter, so spend time crafting a profile that positions you as a must-have candidate.

Want to make sure your CV profile section is having the right impact before you start applying for jobs? Get Word Dragon to work with you on crafting the perfect CV. Drop me a message to get started today.