Applying for jobs in the commercial vehicle industry, but not sure how to write your CV? Whether you’re an HGV technician, plant fitter or hydraulic engineer, your CV is your first impression. Let’s make it count.
1. Start with a clear, professional title
At the top of your CV, clearly state your job title. This isn’t the place for “Curriculum Vitae” or “Personal Details.” Instead, use:
- HGV Technician | Diagnostics & EV Systems
- Mobile Industrial Door Engineer | PPM & Breakdown Specialist
This immediately tells hiring managers what you do and helps your CV pass the 6-second skim test.
2. Skip the hobbies section
Unless your hobbies directly relate to the job (like a passion for vehicle restoration for a technician role), omit this section. Use the space to highlight:
- Technical certifications (e.g., IMI Level 3)
- Key skills (e.g., diagnostics, hydraulics, telematics)
- Relevant experience
This keeps your CV focused and relevant.
3. Focus on achievements, not just duties
Instead of listing job responsibilities, showcase what you’ve accomplished. For example:
- “Reduced workshop downtime by 15% through proactive diagnostics and maintenance.”
- “Successfully completed 50+ EV conversions, adhering to all safety standards.”
Quantifiable achievements demonstrate your impact and value and can be great talking points during an interview.
4. Keep it simple and skimmable
Hiring managers usually only spend a few seconds on each CV, so make sure yours is clear and easy to read by:
- Using a clean, single-column layout
- Employing bullet points for key information
- Keeping font size readable (minimum 11pt)
- Avoiding graphics or photos
A straightforward CV is far more likely to be read thoroughly.
5. Include a professional summary
A brief summary at the top of your CV can set the tone. For instance:
“Experienced HGV Technician with over 10 years in diagnostics and maintenance. Skilled in EV systems and committed to continuous professional development.”
This gives hiring managers a snapshot of your expertise and career focus.
6. Address employment gaps and short-term roles
If you have any gaps in employment whether for travelling, a career break, or other personal reasons, make sure you state it. Transparency helps employers understand your career journey. Similarly, if you’ve had temporary or fixed-term contracts, highlight this on your CV. It explains why some roles may only cover short time frames and shows that the roles were legitimate, structured engagements.
7. Keep your work history up to date
Always put your most recent job at the top, and make sure your CV is fully up to date. Employers want to see what you are doing now, so ensure this section is accurate and reflects your current responsibilities.
8. Explain relocation plans
If you’re planning to relocate, include this in your CV. This reassures recruiters and employers why you might be applying for a role that is further away from your current address. It also shows foresight and commitment to the move.
9. Tailor your CV for each application
Customise your CV to align with the specific job description. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the role’s requirements. This shows attention to detail and genuine interest in the position.
10. Proofread and seek feedback
Before submitting, proofread your CV for errors. Consider asking a colleague or mentor to review it. Fresh eyes can catch mistakes you might have missed.
Conclusion
Your CV’s primary goal is to secure an interview. By presenting a clear, concise, and achievement-focused document, you give yourself the best chance of standing out. At Kemp Recruitment, we work closely with candidates to review and refine CVs, ensuring they highlight the skills, experience, and achievements that employers in the commercial vehicle sector are looking for. If you’d like expert advice on how to write your CV, get in touch with our team today and explore our latest roles.
