How to be CV-savvy

Pensdown- the electrical people, has seen first-hand how challenging it is to attract skilled professionals to the industry. But could part of the issue stem from candidates know how at the application stage?

A recent report by JTL Training reveals a steep 26.2% decline in electrical operatives from 214,200 in 2018 to 158,000 employees in 2024. Without intervention, a further decline of up to 32% is predicted by 2038. With the demand for skilled technicians far outstripping the supply, the UK may struggle to meet housing, clean energy and infrastructure goals. However, suitable candidates could be missing out on their ideal electrical role simply because their CV isn’t up to scratch.

Why your CV matters

We spend a lot of time reviewing CVs when recruiting for electrical engineers and we set a high bar, and for a good reason. We’re entrusted with critical infrastructure and specialist projects across the UK. Yet it’s surprising how many applications fall at the first hurdle.

An application that meets a job specification’s remit, is well presented and includes a host of details such as relevant skills, qualifications and experience, puts a candidate very much top of the ‘possible hire’ pile. Here are some other tips for candidates when compiling a CV.

Don’t just scan the job description — read it properly

We include pre-screening questions in our job ads, such as whether candidates are comfortable working away from home or on unsociable hours. Unfortunately, we still receive lots of applications from people who tick ‘no’ to these questions but still apply. This suggests they haven’t properly understood the role.

In most cases, we won’t progress such applications. If the role clearly states something you can’t or won’t do, be honest with yourself. If you’re applying anyway, explain the circumstances or show flexibility. If not, your time and effort may be better directed toward roles that are a better fit.

Improve your job prospects - make our lives easier – and submit an easy-to-read CV

CVs need to be short, sharp, and to the point. Recruiters can spend less than 30 seconds scanning CVs, lengthy paragraphs of text will likely be skipped. The things we look for from a well-formatted CV include:

• A clear structure — work history, qualifications, key skills

• Bullet points, not big blocks of text

• Relevant experience that matches the role

• Standout qualifications and accreditations

• Format your CV as if someone is scanning it in under 30 seconds — because we usually are

It’s good to use AI to help you write your CV, don’t lose the human touch, put something of yourself in the text. CVs with a human touch, that convey a candidate’s tone of voice or personality, are always more interesting to read – and likely to be more impactful – than ones that are artificially generated.

The more local your location, the better

It matters where our electrical engineers are based, particularly in site-based roles. If you live miles away from where we’re working, we’ll need to know that you're realistically able and willing to travel or stay away.

If you're flexible or already used to working away, say so clearly on your application.

Characteristics are as important as qualifications

Technical skills are important, but so is personality. Team culture is extremely prevalent in Pensdown’s culture. Many companies hold a similar view – good teamwork is essential to a well-supported staff and a productive business.

When applying for a job, ask yourself:

• Are you motivated and driven?

• Will you get stuck in and work as part of a team?

• Do you come across as professional, reliable and likeable?

• Are you driven by the desire to succeed and be proud of what you do, or purely motivated by money?

Your position on each of these points is best outlined in a personal statement as part of a covering letter. As an introduction, a covering letter should indicate that you’ve taken the time to understand your potential employee’s business and why a role within it appeals to you.

Relevant electrical skills light up a CV

If you're applying for electrical roles, make sure a CV reflects your relevant experience. Details should include:

• Areas of electrical installation you have good knowledge of and in what sectors

• Testing and inspection knowledge

• Familiarity with solar PV, EV charging, or data cabling systems

• ECS card status, 18th Edition qualifications, and any specialist tickets

Even if you're newly qualified, highlight hands-on learning, practical experience, and your willingness to grow.

In reality, there is no right or wrong way to write a CV. What attracts one employer might not work for another, vice versa. However, there are general protocols that if followed correctly, will improve a candidate’s chances of success.

A good CV doesn't need to be flashy to be effective; it just needs to be clear, honest, relevant, and show you're genuinely interested in the role. Such detail is vital to helping us give opportunities to people who are ready to take them.

Good luck.