What to include, leave out or check first
| Detail | Recommendation | How to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Include | Use the name you want recruiters to contact you by. |
| Email and phone | Include | Check both; add an international dialling code when applying abroad. |
| City or region | It depends | Useful for onsite roles. A full street address is usually unnecessary. |
| Portfolio or LinkedIn | It depends | Include a current profile that demonstrates relevant work. |
| Passport or national ID | Leave out of a general CV | A formal process may request identification through a separate channel. |
| Age, marital status or health | Leave out | Focus on professional skills and evidence. |
| Photo | Check local expectations | CV conventions vary by country. Check the role and instructions; you can prepare a CV without a photo. |
| Bank details or signature | Leave out | These do not belong on a general job application CV. |
A simple CV contact section
This example is fictional. Replace the placeholders and check every link before submitting your CV.
Alex Taylor
Administrative Assistant
Manchester · alex@example.com · +44 XXXX XXXXXX
Portfolio
Add an up-to-date public work sample link if it is relevant to the role.
Before sharing your CV for feedback
Make an anonymised copy
Remove your name, phone, email, address and personal links. Keep your original for actual applications.
Check the whole document
Review QR codes, filenames, comments and hyperlinks as well as the visible contact section.
Separate your CV from official forms
Some formal processes ask for additional details. Check their instructions and provide information through the requested channel.
Frequently asked questions
Should I put my full address on a CV?
For most general applications, a city or region is enough if location matters. Check any specific requirements of the application process separately.
Should I add a photo?
Check conventions and instructions in the country where you are applying. Focus on your skills and prepare a version without a photo when appropriate.
Do I need my date of birth or national ID?
They are usually unnecessary on a general CV. A separate official form may ask for additional information.
How do I share my CV safely for feedback?
Export an anonymised copy and check every page, link and QR code. Do not share the original contact details publicly.