New CV rules for HR | With Rishi Sunak's new proposals for an exam shake up, what now for the CV of the future?

A CV is traditionally full of all the information you would ever consider sharing about your work history - and that includes exams. But with the news that the government propose scrapping a-levels and t-levels for a new exam system, it raises the question not only of what the CV should look like and include, but the goal posts for recruiters in HR.

The history of the CV dates back centuries, and it has evolved significantly over time. In fact, its origins can be traced back to Leonardo da Vinci's "resume" in 1482, which listed his skills and accomplishments. Of course, you'll already know a CV as a document used to present an individual's educational and professional qualifications. However, in 2023, the CV is arguably, some experts say, in need of a dire shake up. 

The CV as we know it today began to take shape in the 20th century, particularly in the United States and Europe. During this time, employers in various fields began to request standardised CVs from job applicants. These documents included sections for personal information, education, work experience, and skills.

In the digital age, CVs and resumes have gone through further changes. Online job boards and professional networking sites like LinkedIn have made it easier for individuals to create and share their professional profiles. Many employers now request electronic submissions of CVs and resumes. Today, CVs are tailored to specific industries and positions, and their format may vary widely. There is also a growing emphasis on keywords and search engine optimization (SEO) techniques to make CVs more discoverable online. Visual CVs, infographic resumes, and video resumes have gained popularity as well.

As Rishi Sunak proposes a shake up to exams, just what should a CV include?

Here are the new CV rules to make a note of for anyone working in HR, Talent and recruitment:

Rule 1: It's "No longer just a list of past roles"

Paul Dinsdale, founder of executive search specialist company Dinsdale Executive describes a CV as a 'narrative canvas' and the 'story of your professional journey'. He says: "It is no longer just a list of past roles; it must be a compelling account of your experiences, accomplishments, and the value you bring to potential employers. The essence of a CV lies in brevity – keeping it concise, ideally within two pages, or even just one. Its primary function is to clearly convey what you've done and achieved, enabling recruiters to make quick decisions: a resounding "yes, let's interview this candidate" or a disappointing "no."