How to Write a CV Bio

How to Write a Strong CV Bio

A CV bio is the short paragraph at the top of your CV that introduces you to an employer. Typically 3–6 lines long, it summarises your professional identity and core strengths, giving recruiters a quick sense of why you’re a strong candidate. Its purpose is simple: make it clear within seconds who you are and what you bring to the table.

Keep It Concise

Aim for around 50–100 words. Every sentence should serve a purpose. Avoid long, dense paragraphs—clarity and precision are more important than length. A tightly written bio shows professionalism and makes it easy for recruiters to quickly understand your expertise.

Step 1: Let the Role Guide Your Language

Before writing, carefully review the job description. Identify the skills, tools, and responsibilities that appear repeatedly. Notice the terminology the employer uses and, where accurate for your experience, incorporate it. Using the same language demonstrates understanding of the role and helps ensure your CV is picked up by automated application systems.

Step 2: Highlight Who You Are and What You Do Best

A strong CV bio focuses on two key points:

1. Who you are professionally – your role, level, or area of specialism.

2. What you do best – your main skills, strengths, and tools you are proficient in.

For example:

“Project Coordinator with 4 years’ experience in logistics and supply chain operations. Skilled in process optimisation, reporting, and vendor management. Experienced in Excel, SAP, and CRM systems.”

This approach keeps the bio concise, professional, and immediately informative.

Step 3: Avoid Generic Language

Phrases like “hardworking,” “team player,” or “results-driven” are overused and vague. Instead, describe your expertise in practical terms:

• “Experienced in using Excel and Power BI to monitor and report key metrics.”

• “Managed multiple client accounts with a focus on timely and accurate service.”

Clear, concrete language sets your bio apart from generic statements.

Step 4: Include Relevant Details Only

Since space is limited, choose carefully what to highlight:

• Your job title or area of expertise.

• Years of relevant experience.

• Core skills and focus areas.

• Key tools or systems that matter for the role.

• Relevant sectors or professional environments.

Avoid trying to include every responsibility or system you’ve ever used. The goal is a focused snapshot of your professional profile.

Step 5: Tailor for Each Application

While you don’t need to rewrite your bio completely every time, small adjustments make a difference:

• Ensure your opening lines reflect the role you’re applying for.

• Include one or two key tools or skills mentioned in the job description that you genuinely use.

• Adjust wording to match the language of the job advert where appropriate.

Even minor tweaks can make your CV more compelling to recruiters and applicant tracking systems alike.

Step 6: Check Clarity and Accuracy

Your bio sits at the very top of your CV, so mistakes are highly visible. Use British English spelling, read it aloud to ensure it flows naturally, and consider asking someone else to proof it. Clear, polished writing signals professionalism and attention to detail.

Example CV Bios

Administration / Office Support:

“Office Administrator with 3 years’ experience supporting professional services teams. Skilled in diary management, document preparation, and client communications. Proficient in Microsoft Office and CRM platforms.”

Graduate / Early-Career Candidate:

“Recent Business graduate with experience in customer service and social media through internships and part-time work. Comfortable using spreadsheets, analysing data, and communicating with customers online and offline.”

These examples show how a CV bio can be concise, professional, and informative while remaining easy to adapt to your own voice.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Turning your bio into a mini CV; keep it short.

• Copying phrases from other CVs or online templates.

• Listing soft skills without context.

• Using the same bio for very different types of roles.

A CV bio is your professional snapshot. Keep it concise, focused, and relevant. Your goal is to make a strong first impression and give recruiters a clear sense of your strengths.