60+ CV Summary Examples + How-to Guide for 2025
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You must start your CV with a hook to capture the reader's attention. Your introduction should make the hiring manager sit up straight and say: “I want more!” That introduction is known as a CV summary, and I’m about to teach you how to write one that’s professional and compelling.
In this guide I’ll show you:
- How to master the art of writing a good CV summary.
- A simple formula that tells you exactly what to put in a personal CV summary.
- 60+ professional CV summary examples that you can adapt and make your own.
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What is a CV summary?
A CV summary, also called a personal or professional summary, is a 2–4 sentence-long paragraph at the top of your CV that highlights your key qualifications, skills, and experience. This section helps the employer evaluate if you’re a good match for the position.
✅ A good CV summary includes:
- Your introduction: State your current job title and area of expertise.
- Personal traits: Highlight positive attributes that make you a great fit for the company.
- Key skills and experience: Show the strengths and past responsibilities that align with the job you want.
- Targeted achievements: Describe relevant accomplishments from previous jobs or schools using action verbs.
- Objectives: Mention a career goal that aligns with the employer’s needs.
💡 Want to try a different approach? Visit: Personal Profile in a CV
Why do you need a professional summary in a CV?
Did you know that every corporate job opening attracts around 250 resumes? Guess how much time a recruiter spends on one CV? No more than 7 seconds. That’s why CV summary matters so much.
Place it directly below the CV header, so it is the first thing, right after your name, that your recruiter will see. After all, you want them to start reading your CV with the highlights you’ve chosen to impress them first.
📌 Here's what a well-crafted CV summary can do for you:
- Make a strong first impression. A well-crafted profile summary sets the tone for the entire document and prompts the recruiter to learn more about you.
- Emphasise your key qualifications. A good CV summary presents a concise overview of your most relevant skills, experience, and accomplishments to serve as proof that you’re an ideal candidate.
- Outline your career goals. Indicating your professional direction and how your aspirations align with the company’s objectives is a must-have for every CV summary.
If you don’t grab their attention from the outset, they’ll just toss it aside and move on to the next.
💡 Your CV also needs to be visually appealing. Read more: How to Lay out a Professional CV
How to write a CV summary for a job?
It’s not that difficult to create an impressive personal summary for a CV that will make recruiters want to learn more about you.
Here’s how to create a CV summary:
1. Read the job offer carefully
Before you start writing, study the job description in detail. Look at the language they use, the key responsibilities, and the skills they’re asking for. This helps you tailor your summary to match the employer’s needs, and shows you’ve taken the time to apply for this specific position.
2. Mention your current job title and professional experience
State your current role and years of experience. Focus on the highlights of your career, especially the parts that relate directly to the job you’re applying for. Think about what would catch a recruiter’s eye, and leave out anything that doesn’t add value.
3. Quantify your achievements
Use numbers to back up your experience. This provides tangible evidence of your success and demonstrates your understanding of the impact of your work. Use the Problem-Action-Result (PAR) format to explain how you made a difference: what the challenge was, what you did, and what the outcome was.
4. Add relevant keywords to your CV summary
Scan the job advert for keywords: they’re specific terms that match what the employer seeks, such as job titles, tools, skills, or qualifications. Including them in your professional summary helps your CV pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and tells the recruiter straight away that you’ve got the right experience.
5. Use power words and action verbs
Utilise strong verbs like “led”, “created”, “delivered”, or “improved” to make your summary more dynamic and engaging. They show that you’re proactive and results-focused, rather than simply listing duties. Avoid vague language or overused clichés. Instead, keep your writing concise and clear.
6. Follow the right formatting
Keep your CV summary short and to the point. That’s no longer than 3 to 5 lines. Skip personal pronouns like “I” or “my” to maintain a professional tone. Place it right underneath your name and contact details so it’s the first thing a recruiter sees when they open your CV.
7. Write it last
Write your profile summary for a CV once all the other parts of your CV are complete. Create a good work experience section, highlight your educational background, list all the key skills, and add extra sections. Then read the whole document and pick the key information that should be highlighted in your CV summary.
⭐ Bonus: Use this simple CV summary formula
To make things easier, you can use this proven structure when writing your personal summary:
Adjective + Job Title + Years of Experience + Achievements + Skills + What You Want to Do for the Employer
This approach helps you stay focused and ensures your CV summary is relevant, impactful, and tailored to the job you’re after.
So that’s the theory. Let’s put it all into practice. The best way of learning how to write your CV summary section is to look at some CV summary examples!
💡 Pro Tip: If you don't have professional experience, write a CV objective instead. Contrary to the CV summary, the CV objective focuses more on your goals, ambitions, and skills, and not on your achievements and experience.
When making a CV in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check. Start building a professional CV template here for free.
When you’re done, Zety’s CV builder will score your CV and tell you exactly how to make it better.
CV summary examples for business professionals
When reading these CV summary examples, pay close attention to how they effectively highlight experience, utilise relevant keywords, showcase impressive achievements, and incorporate all the key components of the formula I outlined above.
Sample CV summary for an account manager
Client-focused account manager with 8 years of experience in B2B software solutions. Proven record of strengthening client retention and increasing upsell revenue by 20% year-on-year. Skilled in CRM tools, stakeholder communication and contract negotiation. Looking to drive long-term value for clients at Vectoria Systems.
Accountant CV summary example
Detail-oriented chartered accountant with 6 years of experience managing accounts for mid-sized manufacturing firms. Successfully led financial reporting processes, reduced budget variance by 18%, and ensured full compliance with HMRC regulations. Adept in Sage, Xero and Excel. Keen to support financial accuracy and growth at Linford & Co.
Professional summary on a CV for business analysts
Analytical business analyst with 7 years of experience delivering data-driven insights for retail and logistics companies. Streamlined operations at Treadway Distribution, saving £400K annually. Strong in SQL, Tableau and stakeholder reporting. Excited to help optimise performance and guide decisions at Ringley Group.
CV summary sample for a consultant
Results-oriented management consultant with over 9 years’ experience advising FMCG and tech clients. Led strategy redesign at Midvale Foods, increasing operational efficiency by 25%. Expert in project scoping, problem solving and cross-functional collaboration. Seeking to deliver strategic impact at Pinehill Advisory.
Finance manager CV summary sample
Strategic finance manager with 10+ years of experience in corporate finance and budgeting. Successfully oversaw £30M portfolio at Ellwood Capital, boosting profitability by 12% through cost-saving initiatives. Proficient in financial modelling, forecasting and compliance. Aiming to drive fiscal success at Halden & Partners.
Sample CV summary for marketing
Strategic marketing executive with 5 years of experience in digital and brand marketing. Led campaign at Jasper Media that grew social engagement by 60%. Skilled in SEO, content and analytics. Aiming to grow visibility and impact at Zenith Creative.
Sales CV summary example
Target-hitting sales associate with 6 years’ experience in B2B and consumer sales. Exceeded targets by 25% at GlobalTrade Direct with persuasive pitches and rapport building. Skilled in cold calling, negotiation and CRM tools. Looking to boost revenue at Linegate Sales.
Sample CV summary for a project manager
Organised project manager with 9 years’ experience delivering complex builds on time and under budget. Led £1.2M office fit-out for Candor Group with 100% client satisfaction. Skilled in stakeholder management, budgeting and Agile. Eager to drive successful outcomes at Halbridge Projects.
CV summary examples for creatives
Architect CV summary example
Innovative architect with 9 years of experience designing residential and mixed-use developments. Delivered award-winning sustainable housing at Greyline Design Studio, cutting energy use by 30%. Proficient in Revit, AutoCAD and planning regulations. Looking to bring creative and eco-conscious solutions to Nestro Architects.
Profile summary on a CV for acting jobs
Versatile stage and screen actor with 7 years’ experience across theatre, television and commercial film. Recent lead role in Westshore Theatre’s Echoes of Rain received critical acclaim. Skilled in character development, improvisation and voice control. Aiming to deliver compelling performances with Sable Productions.
Personal summary for CVs for artists
Expressive fine artist with over 10 years’ experience in gallery exhibitions and commissioned work. Featured in the 2023 Orton Gallery showcase, with multiple works held in private collections. Skilled in oil, mixed media and digital illustration. Seeking to inspire and connect audiences through visual storytelling at Aurora Collective.
Copywriter professional CV summary sample
Creative copywriter with 6 years of experience crafting content for fashion and lifestyle brands. Boosted web engagement by 35% through SEO-optimised campaigns at Cresswell Studio. Expert in brand tone, storytelling and persuasive writing. Excited to shape voice and engagement at Layla & Co.
Graphic designer CV summary example
Conceptual graphic designer with 5 years’ experience developing brand visuals and marketing collateral. Rebranded client identity at Pinhurst Creative, increasing customer recognition by 40%. Skilled in Adobe Creative Suite, typography and layout design. Looking to elevate visual storytelling at Lineform Agency.
Illustrator CV summary sample
Detail-driven illustrator with 7 years of experience in publishing and advertising. Created over 150 editorial illustrations for The Harper Press and multiple best-selling children’s books. Proficient in Procreate, InDesign and hand-drawn techniques. Keen to bring imaginative visuals to Lunar Lane Studios.
Professional summary for a CV for interior designers
Visionary interior designer with 8 years’ experience transforming commercial and residential spaces. Led full refurbishment of The Malvern Hotel lobby, boosting guest satisfaction scores by 22%. Skilled in 3D modelling, colour theory and supplier coordination. Aiming to deliver bold yet functional interiors at Elm & Ivy Design.
Profile CV summary for a makeup artist
Creative makeup artist with 5+ years’ experience across bridal, editorial and television. Worked on the award-winning Evening in Paris film set with Glowline Productions. Skilled in contouring, prosthetics and client consultation. Eager to bring precision and artistry to Luxe Faces Studio.
CV summary example for models
Professional fashion model with 6 years of experience in editorial, runway and commercial shoots. Featured in Vogue UK and walked for La Scala’s Autumn collection. Skilled in posing, movement and brand representation. Looking to collaborate with forward-thinking clients at Prism Models.
Photographer CV summary example
Dynamic photographer with 10 years’ experience across portrait, fashion and event photography. Built a client base of over 200 through standout visual storytelling and lighting expertise. Published in Lens Magazine and exhibited in the 2024 Brighton Arts Festival. Excited to capture powerful visuals with Elara Visuals.
Sample CV summary for a video editor
Creative video editor with 6 years’ experience producing content for YouTube, TV and social media. Edited viral campaigns at PineView Productions with 5M+ combined views. Skilled in Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects and storytelling. Looking to craft engaging visuals at LunarFrame Studios.
CV summary examples for students and education jobs
Academic CV summary sample
Dedicated academic with 12 years’ experience in higher education and peer-reviewed research. Published in The Journal of Economic Studies and led multiple grant-funded projects. Skilled in data analysis, teaching and academic writing. Keen to contribute to research excellence at Harrington University.
Sample CV summary for graduates
Motivated recent graduate in Business Management with strong academic results and internship experience at Finchel Ltd. Developed key skills in market research, reporting and presentation. Passionate about applying knowledge to real-world business problems at Stanton Group.
Summary for CV example for internships
Enthusiastic intern with strong academic background in communications and practical experience supporting campaigns at Vertex Agency. Assisted with content creation and social media management. Eager to grow professionally and contribute fresh ideas to Brightlane PR.
PhD CV summary sample
Research-focused PhD graduate in Biomedical Science with 4 years of lab experience and multiple publications. Developed and patented a new enzyme delivery system during doctoral studies at Norwick University. Skilled in data analysis, academic writing and collaboration. Looking to advance innovative healthcare research at Zyntra Biotech.
Sample CV summary for a school leaver
Hardworking school leaver with strong GCSE results and a keen interest in business administration. Completed a two-week placement at Brantley & Sons, gaining confidence in clerical tasks and customer service. Eager to learn and grow in a supportive team at Dovetail Enterprises.
CV summary example for a student
Ambitious university student studying Environmental Science, with strong skills in data collection and team projects. Volunteered with GreenPath UK to promote recycling awareness in local schools. Looking to gain hands-on experience and contribute to sustainability goals at Terra Solutions.
Teacher CV summary example
Passionate secondary school teacher with 9 years’ experience in English and Drama education. Improved student performance by 23% at Melrose Academy through creative lesson planning and differentiated support. Skilled in classroom management and curriculum design. Eager to nurture student growth at Brightfield School.
Teaching assistant personal CV summary example
Supportive teaching assistant with 5 years’ experience aiding KS2 pupils in mainstream and SEN classrooms. Helped raise literacy scores by 18% at Hawthorne Primary through targeted intervention. Skilled in lesson support, pupil engagement and behaviour management. Looking to support inclusive learning at Chestnut Hill School.
CV summary examples for hospitality jobs
Barista professional summary example
Friendly barista with 3 years of experience in high-volume cafés. Consistently praised for delivering fast, high-quality drinks and top-rated customer service at Bloom Café. Skilled in latte art, point-of-sale systems and teamwork. Eager to serve great coffee and smiles at Grounded Bean Co.
Bartender CV summary sample
Outgoing bartender with 4 years’ experience in busy pubs and cocktail bars. Developed a signature cocktail menu at The Ivy Lounge, boosting repeat business by 25%. Skilled in mixology, upselling and handling rush hours. Looking to create memorable guest experiences at Jasper’s Bar & Grill.
Sample CV summary for a chef
Creative head chef with 10 years’ experience across fine dining and gastropubs. Led menu design at The Red Oak, achieving AA Rosette status within a year. Skilled in team management, food safety and cost control. Aiming to delight guests with bold flavours at Bramble & Thorn.
Cleaner CV summary example
Reliable cleaner with 5 years of experience maintaining offices, schools and private homes. Achieved spotless inspection reports at BrightSpace Facilities. Skilled in deep cleaning, safe chemical use and time management. Looking to uphold high standards at Clover Cleaning Services.
Waitress CV summary example
Energetic waitress with 2 years of experience in fast-paced restaurants. Recognised as Employee of the Month twice at La Bella Vita for customer satisfaction. Skilled in order accuracy, multitasking and friendly service. Keen to deliver a positive dining experience at Corner Table Bistro.
Personal CV summary for hospitality workers
Customer-focused hospitality professional with 6 years’ experience in hotels and event venues. Coordinated over 300 successful functions at Bayshore Hotel, earning top feedback scores. Proficient in guest services, reservations and team leadership. Looking to elevate guest satisfaction at Harbour View Resort.
Receptionist CV summary example
Professional receptionist with 5 years’ experience in corporate and medical environments. Improved front-desk efficiency by 30% at Selbourne Clinics with streamlined booking processes. Skilled in switchboard systems, calendar management and first impressions. Aiming to create a welcoming atmosphere at Dentara Group.
CV summary sample for computer science jobs
Detail-oriented computer science graduate with strong knowledge of Java, Python and software development cycles. Built a budgeting app used by 1,200+ users during final year at Hadley University. Looking to apply analytical and coding skills in a junior role at ByteLeap Solutions.
CV summary sample for a data analyst
Insight-driven data analyst with 4 years’ experience turning raw data into business decisions. Improved marketing ROI by 22% at Ternwell Media using detailed Tableau dashboards. Skilled in SQL, Excel and data visualisation. Keen to support strategic growth at MetricHub Analytics.
Engineering CV summary example
Solutions-driven mechanical engineer with 8 years of experience in automotive and manufacturing sectors. Reduced system faults by 30% at Nexline Motors through redesign of core components. Skilled in CAD, FEA and process optimisation. Eager to drive innovation and efficiency at CoreTech Engineering.
CV summary example for IT
Technically skilled IT support specialist with 6 years of experience in resolving hardware and software issues. Reduced ticket resolution time by 40% at Syntra Tech. Expert in network troubleshooting, Windows systems and customer service. Looking to keep systems running smoothly at Riverlane IT Solutions.
Sample CV summary for a software developer
Passionate software developer with 5 years’ experience building web and mobile applications. Developed a CRM tool at Novalink that increased client retention by 18%. Skilled in JavaScript, React and Agile methodologies. Aiming to create impactful user experiences at Codewise Labs.
Sample CV summary for a software engineer
Analytical software engineer with 7 years of experience in backend systems and APIs. Helped scale Upgrid’s payment platform to handle 1M+ transactions daily. Proficient in Python, Java and cloud infrastructure. Excited to build reliable systems at ClarionTech.
Web developer CV summary example
Innovative web developer with 4 years’ experience designing responsive websites. Revamped CitySpring’s e-commerce site, improving conversion rate by 30%. Proficient in HTML, CSS, JavaScript and WordPress. Keen to build seamless digital experiences at Brightwave Webworks.
CV summary examples for health & wellness jobs
Beauty therapist CV summary sample
Qualified beauty therapist with 6 years of experience in salons and spas. Built a loyal clientele at Blossom Room by delivering personalised treatments and upselling by 30%. Skilled in facials, waxing and skincare consultations. Excited to join the expert team at Lumière Beauty.
Care assistant CV summary example
Compassionate care assistant with 4 years of experience supporting elderly and dementia patients. Commended by families at Maple Lodge for providing dignity and comfort. Skilled in personal care, manual handling and emotional support. Looking to make a positive difference at HavenCare Home.
Dentist CV summary sample
Detail-oriented dentist with 8 years of experience in general and cosmetic dentistry. Increased patient retention by 25% at Ivy Dental Practice through gentle and thorough care. Skilled in diagnostics, Invisalign and patient communication. Seeking to promote oral health at Greenstone Dental.
CV summary sample for medical jobs
Dedicated medical professional with 10 years of experience in diagnostics and patient care. Played a key role in reducing hospital readmission rates by 18% at Elmhurst Hospital. Skilled in clinical assessments, electronic records and patient relations. Keen to contribute to high-quality care at Northfield Health.
Sample CV summary for nursing jobs
Empathetic registered nurse with 7 years’ experience in surgical wards and A&E. Helped reduce patient wait times by 22% at Rivers NHS Trust through improved triage procedures. Skilled in patient care, wound management and record keeping. Looking to support compassionate care at Meridian Hospital.
Personal trainer sample CV summary
Motivational personal trainer with 5 years’ experience helping clients achieve fitness goals. Boosted client retention by 40% at FitCore Studio through personalised training plans. Certified in strength training, nutrition and injury prevention. Aiming to inspire and empower members at Peak Performance Gym.
Pharmacist professional CV summary example
Diligent pharmacist with 6 years of experience in high-volume community pharmacies. Implemented new stock system at Hightown Pharmacy, reducing expired stock by 35%. Skilled in dispensing, patient advice and controlled drug compliance. Keen to provide safe and efficient service at Clarion Pharmacy.
Support worker CV summary sample
Supportive and reliable support worker with 5 years’ experience helping individuals with learning disabilities. Helped clients at Oakridge Living increase daily independence through tailored plans. Skilled in safeguarding, personal care and emotional support. Seeking to promote well-being at Bright Horizons Care.
CV summary examples for administration
Administrative assistant sample CV summary
Organised administrative assistant with 4 years of experience supporting busy office teams. Streamlined scheduling at Nevison Law, improving productivity by 25%. Proficient in MS Office, filing systems and customer service. Aiming to keep things running smoothly at Penford Solutions.
Sample CV summary for an administrator
Detail-focused administrator with 6 years of experience in finance and property sectors. Reduced data entry errors by 40% at Highfield Estates with process improvements. Skilled in spreadsheets, CRM systems and communication. Looking to support operational success at Lynwell Group.
Executive assistant personal CV summary sample
Proactive executive assistant with 8 years of experience supporting C-suite leaders in global firms. Coordinated international travel and managed calendars with 100% accuracy at Stratix Consulting. Skilled in discretion, time management and communication. Seeking to provide seamless support at Willoughby Partners.
Recruitment consultant CV summary example
Results-driven recruitment consultant with 5 years’ experience placing candidates across tech and finance. Exceeded billing targets by 20% annually at TalentCraft. Skilled in sourcing, relationship building and market mapping. Aiming to match top talent with opportunity at Equinox Recruitment.
CV summary examples for customer service & retail
Customer service sample CV summary
Customer-focused professional with 6 years’ experience resolving queries and building loyalty. Boosted satisfaction scores by 30% at CometComms through clear communication and empathy. Skilled in conflict resolution, call handling and CRM tools. Looking to enhance customer care at Nova UK.
Sample CV summary for retail jobs
Engaging retail assistant with 3 years’ experience in fashion and electronics retail. Drove store sales up by 18% at UrbanTech by delivering expert product advice. Skilled in merchandising, tills and team support. Keen to deliver excellent service at Moda Trends.
Personal CV summary for a retail manager
Target-driven retail manager with 9 years of experience in fashion and lifestyle sectors. Increased revenue by 28% at Elmore Outfitters through strong leadership and stock control. Skilled in team management, KPI tracking and store operations. Eager to drive success at LuxeLine Retail.
Shop assistant CV summary example
Friendly shop assistant with 2 years of experience in high street retail. Praised for quick service and cleanliness at Milton Market. Skilled in tills, stock replenishment and customer assistance. Looking to create great shopping experiences at Sunberry Store.
Fashion CV summary example
Trend-aware fashion assistant with 4 years of experience in styling and visual merchandising. Styled seasonal windows at Pavilion Boutique, leading to a 15% sales boost. Skilled in garment knowledge, branding and customer service. Keen to help clients look and feel their best at Aura Fashion.
CV summary examples for other jobs
Career change CV summary sample
Motivated professional transitioning from hospitality to HR, bringing 7 years of team leadership and customer service. Known for resolving staff issues and boosting morale at Harbury Hotel. Eager to apply people skills in a structured HR environment at Bridgeford Group.
Sample profile summary for a CV for a 16-year-old
Motivated professional transitioning from hospitality to HR, bringing 7 years of team leadership and customer service. Known for resolving staff issues and boosting morale at Harbury Hotel. Eager to apply people skills in a structured HR environment at Bridgeford Group.
Professional summary for a CV for a part-time job
Reliable college student seeking part-time work to build experience and earn independently. Proven punctuality and customer service from volunteering at Unity Café. Looking to support your team while learning valuable skills at Eastbay Market.
Personal summary for a CV for work experience
Motivated Year 11 student with a strong interest in media and communications. Excellent attendance and top grades in English and IT. Hoping to learn from professionals and gain experience at Jetstream Media during work placement.
Football CV summary example
Disciplined football player with 8 years of competitive play and leadership as team captain at Oakfield FC. Skilled in teamwork, fitness and resilience. Looking to bring strong discipline and a winning mindset to a youth coaching role or academy opportunity.
Legal assistant CV summary sample
Meticulous legal assistant with 4 years of experience supporting solicitors in conveyancing and family law. Managed 50+ client files at Milton & Vale with zero compliance issues. Skilled in legal research, document drafting and case management. Aiming to support quality legal service at Greybridge Law.
Nanny sample CV summary
Caring and dependable nanny with 6 years’ experience supporting families with children aged 6 months to 10 years. Helped improve literacy skills and managed daily routines for three families. Certified in paediatric first aid and safeguarding. Looking to provide nurturing support at BrightSteps Childcare.
Sample CV summary for a solicitor
Experienced solicitor with 9 years’ experience in commercial and employment law. Successfully defended complex claims for clients at Ashton & Wright, saving £1.2M in potential liability. Skilled in negotiation, client care and litigation. Eager to deliver expert legal advice at Langford Legal.
Warehouse operative CV summary example
Reliable warehouse operative with 5 years’ experience in order fulfilment and stock control. Exceeded daily pick targets at Swift Distribution by 20% with consistent accuracy. Skilled in forklifts, inventory systems and teamwork. Looking to support efficient operations at ParcelPro Logistics.
Plus, a great cover letter that matches your CV will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here. Here's what it may look like:
See more cover letter templates and start writing.
Key takeaways
Here’s how to write a CV summary:
- Keep it short and sweet. The right length is around four lines.
- Follow the formula. Explain who you are, what you can offer, and your goals.
- Include keywords and beat the ATS.
- Tailor your CV summary to the job.
Thanks for reading. I’ve covered everything you need to know about writing a professional summary for your CV. Good luck with your job search!
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