Has Your CV Worked in 2024? Planning to Use the Same Strategy in 2025? Read This Before You Do

2025 is just around the corner, and if you're confidently planning to send out the same CV you used last year, it’s time to stop and think. The rules have changed. Again. And if your CV didn’t bring in results in 2024, it won’t perform any better this time around. Here’s a disruptive look at what really matters on a CV at mid to senior levels — and the brutal mistakes most executives keep making.

1. Stop Listing Responsibilities — Emphasize Impact

Most CVs read like generic job descriptions. Sure, you’ve “led a team,” “implemented a strategy,” and “improved processes,” but so have thousands of other executives. Here’s the thing: hiring managers don’t care about what you were supposed to do. They want to know what you did. Quantify your impact and bring out the tangible results you achieved. If you improved efficiency, by what percentage? If you cut costs, how much money did that save the company? Be specific and ruthless about the value you added.

Mistake Executives Make: Focusing on responsibilities rather than outcomes. If your CV doesn’t show results, it doesn’t demonstrate your impact, period.

2. Ditch the Generic Language

If your CV is packed with buzzwords like “dynamic,” “results-driven,” and “strategic thinker,” it's time to change tactics. These words are overused and meaningless without context. Instead, provide concrete examples of how your skills set you apart from other executives. Did you solve a specific problem? Achieve a milestone others couldn’t? Highlight those.

Mistake Executives Make: Using buzzwords that lack substance. If you can’t back up every descriptor with proof, leave it out.

3. Update Your Skills to Reflect 2025 Demands

Hiring in 2025 is more competitive, with a heavy emphasis on skills that prove adaptability and digital fluency. Ensure your CV reflects the skills the market is demanding now: think data literacy, AI familiarity, or expertise in crisis management. These are no longer “bonus” skills but expected ones.

Mistake Executives Make: Assuming past skills will remain relevant. Don’t rely on your previous expertise alone. Update yourself and your CV to align with the current industry trends.

GRAB THE OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFETIME

For those ready to make these changes and set themselves up for 2025, I’m hosting a CV Writing Masterclass on Saturday, November 2nd, from 7:00 to 9:00 PM EAT. You’ll get practical, step-by-step guidance on rewriting your CV for real impact. Plus, everyone who registers will receive a free Interview Guide to help you stand out when you get to that next stage.

To Register: The cost is only Ksh 1,750, payable to Freshjobs Kenya Till Number 8777436. Once you’ve paid, send your current CV to [email protected] for a personalized review and advice tailored to your experience. Don’t miss the chance to make sure your CV is the one that gets noticed in 2025.