How to Write a CV That Gets You a Job in South Africa
Getting a good job in South Africa can feel tough, especially with high competition. But don’t stress — it all starts with a strong CV. Your CV is your personal marketing document. In one or two pages, it must show a busy recruiter why you are the right person for the job.
This guide explains, step by step, how to write a CV that works in South Africa. We keep it simple, practical, and focused on what local employers want to see.
Step 1: What Makes a South African CV Different
Before you start writing, it’s important to understand the local CV format. A South African CV usually includes:
Professional Photo
In South Africa, it’s common to include a small, professional photo at the top of your CV. Use a clear headshot, plain background, and wear work-appropriate clothing.
References Ready
Avoid writing “references available on request”. Most South African employers expect at least two references with contact details. Always ask permission before adding someone.
Clear Personal Details
Include your full name, phone number, and a professional email address. Adding a neat LinkedIn profile link is a big plus.
Step 2: Gather Your Information and Choose a CV Template
Before you start, gather everything in one place:
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Job titles, company names, and dates
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Qualifications and certificates
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Technical and soft skills
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Reference contact details
Choose a clean and professional CV template.
For fields like finance, government, law, or office work, keep it simple.
If you’re in design or marketing, a modern template is fine — as long as it’s easy to read.
Tip: Free online CV builders with South African-friendly formats can save time.
DOWNLOAD FREE TEMPLATES
Step 3: How to Structure Your CV (Section by Section)
1. Contact Details & Photo
Place this at the top. Include your name, phone number, email, LinkedIn link, and photo.
2. Personal Statement (Short Profile)
This is a 3–5 sentence summary under your name. It should highlight your experience, skills, and career goal.
Weak:
“I am a hard-working project manager looking for a new challenge.”
Strong:
“A dedicated Project Manager with over 5 years’ experience in the IT sector. Skilled in agile methods and meeting deadlines. Looking to bring strong leadership and planning skills to a growing company.”
3. Work Experience
Start with your most recent job. Focus on results, not just duties.
Instead of:
“Responsible for sales targets.”
Write:
“Exceeded sales targets by 15% for three consecutive quarters.”
4. Education
List your highest qualification first. Include institution, qualification, and year completed.
5. Skills
Separate skills into:
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Technical Skills (e.g. Excel, Python, AutoCAD)
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Soft Skills (e.g. communication, teamwork, problem-solving)
Match your skills to the job advert keywords.
6. References
Include at least two references with:
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Name
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Job title
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Company
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Phone number
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Email address
Step 4: Final Checks Before Sending Your CV
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Keep it 1–2 pages
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Tailor your CV for each job
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Check spelling and grammar carefully
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Save and send as a PDF
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Always include a short, customised cover letter
What to Avoid on a South African CV
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Lying or exaggerating experience
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Adding age, ID number, religion, or marital status
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Using slang, jokes, or fancy fonts
Step 5: Helpful CV Tools in South Africa
If writing a CV feels hard, use online tools:
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MyPerfectResume – ATS-friendly templates
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Resume Now – Editable CV templates
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MyPerfectCV – South African CV examples
You can also check CV examples from the South African Department of Labour for guidance.
Final Words
Finding a job in South Africa can take time — sometimes 2 to 6 weeks or more. But a strong CV gives you a big advantage. Get it right, stay consistent, and keep applying.
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