How to tailor your CV for 2026’s skills-first UK job market
Introduction
The UK labour market is evolving fast. As we head into 2026, many employers will be shifting away from traditional degree-based hiring, placing greater value on demonstrable skills and real-world experience. For job-seekers in this new environment, adapting how you present yourself on your CV could make or break your chances.
The shift to skills-based hiring
Employers across sectors, especially in tech, digital, and green-energy roles, are increasingly emphasising practical skills over formal qualifications.
For many high-demand roles, especially in AI, data analytics, sustainability, and green jobs, upskilling via online courses, certifications, or bootcamps may matter more than having a traditional degree.
How to optimise your CV accordingly
Skills-first layout: Lead with a “Core Competencies / Technical Skills / Key Strengths” section, putting tools, technologies, soft skills (e.g. communication, project-management), and certifications front and centre.
Quantifiable achievements: Instead of just listing tasks, highlight measurable outcomes (e.g. “Improved process efficiency by 25%,” “Managed a team of 6,” “Delivered project under budget by £10k”), this shows real capability beyond credentials.
Certifications and continuous learning: Include relevant certifications (even “micro-credentials”, bootcamps or short courses) especially in high-demand areas like data, AI, sustainability, or digital skills.
Flexible narrative: For career-changers or those with non-linear backgrounds, frame diverse experiences around transferable skills (communication, adaptability, problem-solving). In a skills-based hiring market, these matter.
Tailored CV per job ad: Match your CV to the job advert’s “required skills” with keywords and phrasing that align with the employer’s language.
Why this matters now
With evolving employer expectations, generic CVs rooted in degrees may no longer cut it. Candidates who highlight concrete skills, certifications, and results will stand out and that’s where professional CV-editing services (like tweak) can add significant value.
Does your CV show what you can do not just what you studied? Reach out to us today to get a full CV rewrite optimised for your dream role.