Tailoring Your CV for Different Creative Industries
A CV that works for publishing won't work for fashion. Learn how to adapt your CV for the creative industry you're targeting.
One CV doesn't fit all creative industries. Tailoring your CV for the sector you're targeting significantly increases your chances.
Start with the basics. The core structure, summary, experience, skills, and portfolio link, stays the same. What changes is the emphasis and language.
For publishing, highlight editorial experience, attention to detail, and any writing or proofreading work. Use formal, precise language.
For fashion, emphasise visual skills, trend awareness, and any retail or styling experience. Use confident, contemporary language.
For digital and tech, focus on software proficiency, UX thinking, and data-informed decisions. Use clear, direct language.
For film and media, highlight storytelling, collaboration, and any production experience. Use dynamic, energetic language.
Adjust your portfolio link too. If you have sector-specific work, make sure it's prominent. If not, consider creating a targeted sample.
Finally, mirror the language used in the job description. If they say 'visual designer' and your CV says 'graphic designer', consider adjusting. Small alignments show you've read the brief.
Key Takeaways
- Keep the core CV structure but adjust emphasis and language for each sector.
- Highlight sector-relevant skills and make targeted work prominent in your portfolio.
- Mirror the language of the job description to show alignment with the role.
- Keep a master CV you can quickly adapt, rather than starting from scratch each time.
More from CV Support
Build Your First Creative CV
A clear, practical walkthrough of structuring a creative CV that gets noticed, from layout to language.
How to Write a CV With No Industry Experience
A practical guide for creatives who have never worked in the industry, covering what to include, what to leave out, and how to make your CV stand out for the right reasons.
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