Updating your tech CV: A guide for 2022

Updating a tech CV is as important a skill as writing a technology CV from scratch. In fact, as you progress to more senior roles, knowing how to update a technical CV becomes even more crucial to landing promotions and leadership positions in a competitive tech industry. 

Here, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about updating your tech CV for the current job market.

Getting started with technical CVs

Writing a CV for tech roles might break some of the rules of good CV writing. For example, it can be more acceptable to include some of the jargon and technical terms on a technical CV that you would otherwise normally avoid. But at the same time, it should readable for a variety of audiences, and always make clear what you bring to the table at a high level.

Zoe Glennen, Operating Director at Michael Page Technology said:

Your CV is the first impression you make with a prospective new employer, and it’s helpful to think of it as presenting a business case for why they should hire you. Remember that there is a good chance the HR or Talent Acquisition team will screen it first, so it’s important that the CV can be understood by technical and non-technical audiences.

For specific tech CV examples and how this sector differs from some others, read our guide on how to write a CV for your sector. Throughout this article we'll take a look at some of the best tech CV examples, with guidance on what UK hiring managers will be hoping to see.

Best practice: Technology CV template

Let's begin with a best practice technology CV template you can use as a starting point. Even if you're updating an existing technology CV, it's worth checking that your overall structure is still the best it can be, before you apply for a new technical position.

Start with our general CV template. This is a good springboard when writing a CV for any sector and will give you a general idea of CV writing best practice, which you can then tailor to writing a CV for tech company vacancies.

Basic skills

All applicants for technology jobs will claim a high level of computer competency, so make sure you don't waste space on the most basic skills. Try to provide stronger examples of technical skills, such as computer science qualifications and computer programming experience. That way there will be no need to waste space specifying that you know your way around a keyboard and mouse.

Highlight your technical skills

Following on from the above, make sure your top technical skills stand out. Hiring managers are busy and technology CVs in particular can be extremely dense with information. Use bullet points with plenty of white space to present yourself in a concise, easily digestible way, and be sure to signpost your strongest features to the recruiter or interviewer.

Writing a tech lead CV

Your technology CV template should change over time. For entry-level roles, it's likely to feature your education and certifications more prominently. As you move towards writing and updating a tech lead CV, you'll want to prioritise your career experience and more senior-level professional accreditations.

Looking for a new exciting tech role? View and apply for a wide range of live jobs below.

More tech CV examples: What UK recruiters want to see

For more tips on structuring your CV and some examples of what to include in your personal statement, career history, education and key skills, see our example of a good CV. Below, we highlight best practices for a few popular areas:

Computer programming

If you're an experienced computer programmer, make sure this is clear in your CV. Name the programming languages you can use fluently, as well as any others in which you have limited but valuable proficiency.
'Low-code' platforms like Microsoft PowerApps are becoming more prominent, so it may be worth specifying that you have experience working with these too.

UI/UX design

Tech jobs are increasingly about designing user interfaces and user experience for websites, mobile apps and traditional computer programs alike.

Give evidence of your tech skills in UI/UX design. If possible, gain a specific qualification or certificate in this area, if it's likely to be a significant part of your role in the future. Or give details of an app or website you developed that performed well in the real world.

Soft skills

Don't neglect soft skills. Many hiring managers are looking for candidates who not only have the necessary tech capabilities, but who have strong communication skills, work in a team and, for leadership roles, manage subordinates effectively.

Again, try to evidence your soft skills. While interpersonal skills may not have formed a core part of your education, you may have career experience where you coordinated a team to meet and exceed targets - or extracurricular interests that are worth listing.

More top tips for writing and updating tech CVs

You can find more general tips for writing your CV in our guide, how to write a CV. As a tech professional, however, there are some specific steps you can take to ensure that your CV is as impactful as possible. 
Here's a summary of some of the best advice to keep in mind when writing and updating CVs for technology roles:

Layout

Make sure the order of information is appropriate for where you are in your tech career and the job description you are applying for. Put the most recent and most relevant information at the top to grab the attention of interviewers and hiring managers who are rushed for time. Update the tech CV template and structure you are using periodically.

Cut the chaff

As older education and entry-level technical jobs fade from significance, give them less space on your CV. If you want to retain them, be brief about what was involved and make sure you highlight the reasons why you decided to keep those entries on your CV.

Close the gaps

Keeping the above in mind, don't omit parts of your career or education completely. When updating a tech lead CV, make sure it presents a clear chronology of your working life, with a brief explanation of any gaps or personal projects, such as compassionate sabbaticals or career breaks to go travelling.

By including at least a short description of the reasons for any breaks, you show the hiring manager that you have nothing to hide, and may give the interviewer something genuinely interesting to ask you about.

Expert help with your tech CV

For more advice on how to tailor your CV for tech roles at all seniority levels, or for any general queries about writing and updating your CV, speak to a Michael Page specialist today.