Your CV is often the first thing a business school sees – and first impressions count.

It sets the tone for your entire MBA application, offering a snapshot of your academic and professional journey so far. But more than just a list of roles and responsibilities, your CV is a strategic tool. It shows how you’ve made an impact, how you’ve progressed, and what potential you bring to the table.

In short: your MBA CV matters. A lot.

Here are three golden rules to guide you as you prepare it:

1. Keep it to One Page: Even if a school doesn’t explicitly require it, one page is the smart move – it’s what most admissions committees expect. Brevity signals focus and clarity. If the school provides a CV template, use it – they’ve shared it for a reason. Aim to include only the most relevant, high-impact information that supports your MBA story.

2. Focus on Impact, Not Responsibilities: Your CV shouldn’t read like a job description. Admissions Officers want to understand what you have accomplished – not just what your job entailed. Highlight the results you’ve delivered, the improvements you’ve made, and where you’ve led or influenced outcomes. Most applications give you space elsewhere to go into the “what” and “why” of your roles. Use your CV to showcase the so what.

3. Show Progression, Leadership and Global Exposure: These three themes can really make your experience stand out. Leadership doesn’t have to mean managing people – think broadly about where you’ve taken initiative, driven change, or influenced others. And international exposure isn’t only about working abroad – it can include cross-cultural teamwork, global clients, or any experience that’s expanded your worldview.

Want Expert Eyes on Your MBA CV? If you’re serious about getting your CV application-ready, I offer personalised MBA CV review sessions designed to help you make a strong first impression.

In a focused 1:1 session, I’ll:

• Spot red flags or missed opportunities
• Suggest improvements to structure, language, and positioning
• Help you align your CV with your MBA goals

You’ll send your CV in advance, and we’ll go through it together to make sure it’s as strong and strategic as it can be.

£100 – Book your 1:1 CV review here