How to Write a Winning CV Headline

The key factor that entices someone to read an article from any media source is its headline. This principle also applies to your CV: An outstanding CV headline will instantly capture the interest of recruiters and hiring managers, encouraging them to delve deeper into your CV.

What Is a CV Headline?

A CV headline is a concise and engaging description of yourself positioned at the top of the first page. It includes your job title(s) and a phrase that highlights your suitability for the job.

When crafting CVs for my candidates, I often utilize this structure:

= Adjectives + Job Title + Experience + Education Qualification + Achievement

It's not necessary to include all elements, but a combination of one or more is highly recommended.

Here are a few examples:

1. "On Target Sales Manager with an MBA and driving an Annual 40 Million Business"

2. "Enthusiastic Marketing Consultant having 15 years of expertise in brand building and SEO Strategies""Energetic executive assistant and company secretary for top UAE firms."

3. "Honors Mechanical Engineer with 5 years of experience in repairing complex rotating machines and compressors"

4. "MIT Honors Graduate with Robotics Engineering expertise"

Your headline should be placed right below your name and contact information, and above your summary, if you include one. Otherwise, it should precede your work experience or whatever section you start with.

Why Should I Use a CV Headline?

CV headlines (and subheadings) are effective because they help you define who you are and what your core value is to the recruiter or hiring manager. This is your best and most immediate opportunity to indicate that you are exactly what they need. It encourages them to continue reading, which is precisely your goal.

Your headline also increases the likelihood that the recruiter or hiring manager will notice your application initially. Make sure to incorporate relevant keywords in your CV to ensure it is easily found and ranks high in search results. An ATS (Application Tracking System), used by most recruiters and companies, will not overlook it. Your CV will almost certainly be read.

6 Tips for Writing a Great Resume Headline

What makes a headline stand out? A great headline should be (1) rich in keywords, (2) concise, and (3) captivating, based on your expertise and achievements.

1. Plan for the Job You Want based on Your Experience

2. Tailor Your Headline for Each Role You Pursue

Each job is unique, and so is each job advertisement. Every CV you submit must be tailored to the specific job advertisement. A generic approach does not guarantee a high response rate.

3. Keep It Concise

Your CV headline should not exceed one line (or two lines with a subheading). Keep it brief yet impactful.

Avoid Clichés

Avoid using vague terms and unnecessary text like “detail-oriented” and “outside-the-box.” Recruiters see these phrases on nearly every CV. Remember, you want your CV to stand out.

5. Use Standard Job Titles

Ensure you use a specific, common job title that is clear. For example, if your title is "Team Leader," using that alone may leave the reader wondering about the product or industry. This uncertainty might lead them to overlook your resume. Instead, use "Senior Credit Card Sales Lead" to capture additional keywords like “credit card” and “sales” if you're applying for a “team leader-credit card” position.

6. Highlight Accomplishments

Accomplishments speak louder than responsibilities. For example, state “Building Material Sales Executive with a 100% target achievement for 3 consecutive years” (assuming it's true).

If your CV headline needs to be on two lines, that's acceptable; what's most important is that you have one immediately.

Your goal is to position yourself as the best candidate, and it all begins with the headline.