A CV recently landed in the Kin Collective inbox titled....
“FINAL_version_updated_USE_THIS_ONE(2).docx”
Sound familiar?
In a competitive job market, many professionals are applying for multiple roles, tailoring their CVs regularly, and juggling several versions saved in different folders. It’s a common reality, but one that highlights just how easy it is to overlook the small details.
And when hiring managers or recruiters are reviewing dozens of applications at a time, those small details can make a big difference.
From experience working across marketing, digital, creative, and communications recruitment, the Kin Collective team has seen first-hand how simple oversights can influence first impressions before a CV is even opened.
Here are four key areas that are worth revisiting before hitting send:
1. Keep File Names Clean and Professional
CV file names like Firstname-Lastname-CV-July2025.pdf are easy to read, easy to find, and suggest a polished, organised approach.
Overly complex names (e.g., “FINALFINALV2_USE_THIS_ONE.docx”) might seem harmless, but they can give the impression of chaos rather than confidence.
2. Use Clear Email Subject Lines
When emailing a CV, the subject line is one of the first things a hiring manager will see. Phrases like:
“Marketing Manager Application – Firstname Lastname”
Make it easy to understand what the email relates to and who it's from.
Generic lines like “CV for job” or “Application” are more likely to get lost or overlooked.
3. Don’t Forget Contact Details
Surprisingly, many CVs still arrive with no email address or phone number listed.
Including both ensures that employers can get in touch quickly if they want to move forward. Time lost tracking down contact information could mean a missed opportunity.
4. Add a General Location
With many roles now offering hybrid working, employers often want to know where candidates are based to assess commuting feasibility.
Even a rough location (e.g., “Based in Berkshire” or “Living in Cambridgeshire, open to remote and hybrid roles”) helps streamline the process and avoid delays.
Why These CV Details Matter
None of these tips will secure a role by themselves, but together, they can help a candidate present as more prepared, professional, and ready to engage.
In a highly competitive hiring landscape, a strong first impression counts for a lot, and often starts before the CV is even opened.
Need support with your job search?
Kin Collective specialises in recruitment for marketing, digital, creative and communications roles across the UK. Whether you're hiring or exploring your next opportunity, our team is here to help.
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