Modern CV Formatting Rules
- Font: Use standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Helvetica. Size 10 or 11.
- Margins: Keep margins to at least 0.5 inches on all sides.
- Colors: Stick to black text. You can use a dark blue for headers if you must.
- Spacing: Ensure consistent line spacing (1.15 is usually safe).
- File Type: Always export and send as a PDF unless explicitly asked for a Word document.
I am tired of opening attachments and seeing a CV that looks like a secondary school assignment. Wild fonts, neon green headers, and inconsistent bullet points.
If your CV is visually chaotic, I automatically assume your work process is also chaotic.
Keep It Boring
Yes, you heard me. Unless you are applying for a graphic design role, your CV should be visually boring. Boring means scannable. Boring means professional.
Nigerian HR professionals have to review hundreds of applications daily. We don’t want to hunt for your employment dates because you hid them in a weird sidebar.
The PDF Rule
Never, ever send a Word Document (.docx) unless the job description specifically demands it.
Why? Because when I open your Word document on my Mac, or on my phone while stuck in Third Mainland Bridge traffic, your formatting will scramble. Your carefully placed text boxes will shift.
Save it as a PDF. A PDF looks exactly the same on every single device.