If you’re applying for finance and accounting roles, your CV needs to show accuracy, reliability, and a good head for numbers from the very first glance. Employers want to see clear evidence that you can handle their financial processes confidently. With a few simple tweaks, you can make your CV stand out.
1. Start with a clear, confident personal profile
Your personal profile is the first thing employers read, so keep it short and purposeful. Describe who you are, what you specialise in, and what you can offer. For finance and accounting roles, highlight your accuracy, analytical skills, and ability to work with complex information. Avoid vague statements and focus on strengths that directly relate to the role you want.
Use this space to set the tone: you’re capable, skilled, and ready to contribute.
2. Show the right experience first
When applying for finance and accounting jobs in London, employers want to quickly see that you’ve handled responsibilities similar to theirs. Put your most relevant roles at the top of your experience section, even if they aren’t your most recent positions.
Under each job, include short bullet points that explain your core tasks and achievements. Focus on things like:
· Producing financial reports
· Supporting month-end processes
· Managing budgets
· Using accounting software
· Improving accuracy or efficiency
Keep each point short and specific so it’s easy to scan.
3. Make your achievements measurable
Numbers make your CV stronger. Instead of saying you “improved financial accuracy”, explain that you “reduced invoice errors by 15%” or “supported a process change that saved five hours per month”. Employers love concrete results, especially in finance roles where attention to detail really matters.
If you’re earlier in your career and don’t have lots of achievements yet, focus on responsibilities that show trust and competence, i.e. things that show you handled important work reliably.
4. Tailor your skills to finance and accounting roles
A skills section helps hiring managers spot key strengths quickly. Instead of listing every skill you can think of, choose the ones most relevant to finance and accounting jobs in London. These often include:
· Software, including Excel, Sage, Xero, or other accounting tools
· Reconciliation
· Attention to detail
· Data analysis
· Understanding of financial regulations
Keep the list tidy and avoid jargon that could distract from your core expertise.
5. Highlight your qualifications clearly
Finance/accounting roles often require certain qualifications, so create a separate section for these. Include degrees, AAT, ACCA, CIMA, or any other training you’ve completed. If you’re currently studying, say so as this reassures employers that you’re working towards the right level.
If you have additional learning and career development courses under your belt, include these too. They help show initiative and commitment to your career.
6. Keep formatting simple and professional
A clean CV always makes a better impression. Stick to a clear font, use short paragraphs, and leave enough white space so everything feels easy to read. Avoid graphics, colour blocks, or overly designed templates that can distract from your content.
Before sending your CV, read it out loud to check the flow and thoroughly check it for errors. Even small mistakes can put employers off in finance roles where accuracy is essential.
Refining your CV can give you a real advantage. If you’re ready for your next move, discover more about finance and accounting jobs in London.