CV glow-up: 5 smart tweaks that make a big impact

Make your first impression count

Your CV is often your first introduction to a recruiter – and in film and TV, first impressions count. In a fast-paced industry where decisions are made in seconds, a clear, impactful CV can make all the difference. Whether you’re breaking in, stepping up, or switching roles, these five smart tweaks from roles industry recruiter, Grainne Phillips, will help your CV shine and stand out from the crowd.

1. Make your contact details work for you 

Keep it simple and professional. Include your name, mobile number, and email address at the top – and hyperlink your LinkedIn profile. Ditch the full address and date of birth – they’re unnecessary on a modern TV industry CV. Recruiters want easy access, not personal data. 

2. Format like a pro 

You’ve got 6–9 seconds to impress. Use bullet points, clean fonts, and clear headings. Two to three pages is plenty – and white space is your friend. Don’t cram every job you’ve ever had onto one page. Focus on readability and flow. If a recruiter’s eyes can glide over your CV, they’re more likely to stop and read it. 

3. Highlight what you delivered 

Don’t just list job titles. For each credit, include the show or film, production company, broadcaster or studio, and dates. Then explain your impact. Did you save budget, solve a crisis, manage a team, or secure standout talent? Include tangible results like viewership numbers, awards, or successful launches. Your contribution counts – show it off. 

4. Highlight transferable skills for the film, TV and cinema industry 

Film and TV demands a mix of creativity, leadership, and problem-solving. Make sure your CV reflects skills like project management, crisis handling, media relations, and digital know-how. Even if you’re changing roles or sectors, highlight the skills that travel with you – they’re often what get you in the door. 

5. Consider polishing and refining with AI (yes, really!) 

AI can be a great assistant – if you use it wisely. Use available AI tools to check your CV for clarity and UK English. Let it help simplify jargon or vary your language. But always check copy and add your personal touch. Avoid robotic phrasing and focus on outcomes, not fluff. And remember, ChatGPT is a tool, not your voice, keep it authentically you. 

Your CV should tell the story of your skills, your experience, and the value you bring – all at a glance. Think of it as your personal highlight reel. With these five simple tweaks, you’ll give recruiters every reason to put you at the top of their list. 

About Grainne Phillips 

An industry recruiter with eight years’ experience working in talent in broadcast TV. With over a decade casting and producing on shows like Got to Dance, The Voice and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, Gráinne knows exactly what recruiters and talent managers are looking for. She now runs Bloom with G, a bespoke CV building service for mid-senior level TV and Media Professionals.