The CV Conundrum
Fri, 3 Oct 2025

Ever wondered what really happens when your CV lands in the hands of recruiters, HR, or hiring managers?

At The CV Conundrum today, we took a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how professionals actually review CVs.

Key Takeaways:

Put key skills up front to make an impact fast.
Balance writing for humans and electronic systems (ATS).
Reduce wasted white space to keep it clear but concise.
Remember: AI review vs ATS screening can differ.
The 7-second rule is real. First impressions matter.
Ensure your CV is truly ATS friendly.
Use strong formatting & clear headings for readability.

Featuring expert insights from:
 • Tracy Fisher MCIPD, Otter Jobs
 • Felix Obadaki, M923 Consulting
 • Hannah B. at Clarion Futures
 • Sarah McKinlay FCIPD at SJ McKinlay Consulting

What participants gained:

Seeing through the eyes of a hirer – what gets noticed, what gets skipped.
Perspectives across different industries (no one-size-fits-all!).
A clear view of each CV review stage – from skim to shortlist.
Practical strategies to stand out in a competitive job market.

Thanks to everyone who joined us, and remember, your CV isn’t just a document, it’s your first impression. Make it count.