What Makes an Accountancy CV Stand Out?
Autumn officially arrived yesterday, and with the change in season often comes a shift in mindset. As the leaves turn and the evenings draw in, many people start to reflect on their career – especially with the end of the year in sight.
If you’re thinking about making a move before Christmas, or just want to make sure you’re ready if the right opportunity comes along, then there’s one thing you need to get right first: your CV.
Because in a competitive accountancy market, your CV is still your golden ticket to getting noticed. And it’s not just about listing your responsibilities – it’s about showcasing your value.
So… what really makes an accountancy CV stand out?
Let’s break it down.
1. Tailor It to the Role
The biggest mistake we see? Sending out the same CV for every job.
Every firm is different, and so is every role – so your CV should reflect that. Take the time to read the job spec and think:
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What are they really looking for?
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What experience do I have that matches that?
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What keywords or skills are they emphasising?
Then, tailor your profile, bullet points, and language to suit.
It doesn’t need to be a full rewrite – just a smart edit that shows you understand the role and where you’d fit in.
2. Don’t Just List Duties – Show Achievements
This is a big one – and it's where most CVs fall flat.
It’s very easy to write a list of what you were responsible for in a role. But hiring managers already know what an Accounts Assistant or Audit Senior does. They’re looking for what you’ve actually achieved.
Ask yourself:
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Did you improve a process?
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Save time or reduce errors?
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Get great feedback from a client?
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Help train or support others?
Even small wins can make a big impact if presented clearly.
For example:
❌ “Prepared VAT returns and management accounts.”
✅ “Prepared VAT returns and management accounts for 20+ SME clients, improving reporting turnaround by 15% through implementing more efficient data collection processes.”
See the difference?
3. Keep the Format Clean and Clear
Your CV isn’t the place to get overly creative.
Stick to:
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A simple, professional font
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Clear headings and sections
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Bullet points instead of big paragraphs
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Consistent formatting (dates, job titles, spacing)
Your goal is to make your CV easy to read – especially for time-pressed recruiters and hiring managers scanning through dozens at a time.
4. Add the Right Level of Detail
In accountancy, details matter – but not every detail.
Try to keep your CV to 2 pages (unless you’re at a senior level), and focus on the last 5–10 years of experience. Earlier roles can be summarised briefly.
Make sure to include:
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Software you’ve used (e.g. Xero, Iris, Sage, QuickBooks)
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Client sectors you’ve worked with
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Type of work (e.g. statutory accounts, audit, bookkeeping, tax, payroll)
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Qualifications (including ones in progress)
The more relevant information you give – the easier it is for someone to match you to a role.
5. Proofread. Then Proofread Again.
This might sound obvious – but even the strongest CV can be let down by spelling mistakes or sloppy grammar.
Before sending it anywhere, give your CV a final proofread. Better yet – ask someone else to check it for you. It’s amazing what a second pair of eyes can catch.
Bonus Tip: Add a Short Profile
Start your CV with a short personal profile – a few lines that summarise who you are, your experience level, and what you’re looking for.
Think of it as your “elevator pitch” – a quick way for someone to understand what makes you a great candidate in just a few seconds.
Need Help with Your CV?
We review hundreds of CVs every week, and we’re always happy to offer feedback – no pressure, no obligation.
Sometimes, it’s just about tweaking the language or changing the format – and those small changes can make a big difference.
If you’d like a free CV review, just drop me a message – I’d be happy to help.
Featured Role: Accounts Senior – Manchester
We’re currently working with a brilliant independent accountancy firm in Manchester who are looking for an experienced Accounts Senior to join their team.
It’s a great role with:
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A varied and interesting client base
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Strong progression opportunities
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A supportive, down-to-earth team culture
If you’re based in the Manchester area and open to exploring new roles, get in touch for a confidential chat.
Autumn = New Beginnings
Whether you're actively job hunting or just testing the waters, this is a great time to refresh your CV and see what's out there.
The job market is busy, firms are hiring, and with a little bit of prep, you could be in a new role before the Christmas lights go up.
Let’s make sure your CV does you justice.
Lydia
ProTalent – Accountancy Practice Recruitment