When applying for jobs in Kenya, your CV is your first opportunity to make a great impression. With the rapidly changing job market, particularly in 2025, it’s essential to have a CV that stands out. With the increasing use of technology in hiring processes, understanding the best CV format can give you a competitive edge. In this blog, we will explore the top three types of CV formats—Functional, Simple, and Creative—and help you determine which one is best suited for your career and the specific job you’re applying for.
Before we dive into the types of CV formats, it’s essential to know how to structure your contact details. The format you choose should always include:
- Full Name: Prominently displayed at the top.
- Phone Number: A professional Kenyan number (e.g., starting with +254).
- Email Address: Use a professional email (e.g., firstname.lastname@gmail.com).
- LinkedIn Profile: Include if you have a profile, as it’s becoming more common in professional circles.
- Physical Address: Optional, but it can be helpful to show your city and county.
Now that your contact details are sorted, let’s explore the three types of CV formats you can choose from.
1. Functional CV Format
The Functional CV is focused on skills and abilities rather than work history. This format is ideal for individuals who:
- Are switching careers and want to highlight transferable skills.
- Have gaps in their employment history.
- Are recent graduates with limited work experience.
Key Features of the Functional CV Format:
- Emphasis on Skills: Your professional summary and skills section take precedence over job titles or companies. Here, you can group your abilities into categories like “Leadership,” “Communication,” and “Technical Skills.”
- De-emphasis on Work Experience: Instead of detailing job responsibilities, the functional CV focuses on what you can do.
- Less Chronological: Your work experience is briefly mentioned at the bottom of the CV, usually just to show the companies you’ve worked with, rather than providing detailed descriptions of each role.
When to Use:
The Functional CV is best for those in career transitions, entry-level job seekers, or anyone with a non-linear work history. It allows you to draw attention to your skills, which is critical when your job experience might not align directly with the role you’re applying for.
2. Simple CV Format
The Simple CV (also called a chronological CV) is the most commonly used format in Kenya and globally. It is straightforward, well-structured, and highlights your work history in chronological order.
Key Features of the Simple CV Format:
- Clear Chronological Order: Your most recent job is listed at the top, with your previous positions below it in reverse order.
- Focus on Experience: Each job title, company name, and dates of employment are clearly outlined. The focus is on your career progression and accomplishments.
- Clear Sections: Your CV is divided into distinct sections like Professional Summary, Key Skills, Work Experience, Education, and Certifications.
When to Use:
The Simple CV format is ideal if you have a solid and consistent work history in a specific industry or role. It’s the go-to format for professionals who want to emphasize their experience and career growth, especially when applying to traditional employers who value a clear career trajectory.
3. Creative CV Format
The Creative CV is designed for candidates in fields like marketing, design, media, and the arts, where your ability to stand out is part of the job. This format allows for more flexibility and can include graphics, colors, and visually engaging layouts.
Key Features of the Creative CV Format:
- Visually Engaging: This format incorporates colors, icons, graphics, and unusual fonts. The goal is to demonstrate creativity and originality.
- Non-Traditional Layouts: You might use a timeline or a graphic to showcase your career journey or achievements.
- Showcases Design Skills: For those in creative industries, this format can act as a portfolio to demonstrate your design sensibility.
When to Use:
The Creative CV format is best for individuals in industries where creativity is a key component of the role (e.g., graphic designers, marketing professionals, video editors). It’s also useful for those applying to companies known for valuing innovation and outside-the-box thinking.
Which CV Format is Best for You?
Each CV format has its strengths and can be used strategically based on your experience, career stage, and the role you’re targeting. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
- Functional CV: Best if you’re changing careers, have limited experience, or want to focus on transferable skills.
- Simple CV: Ideal for professionals with a clear career path and solid experience in a specific industry or role.
- Creative CV: Best for candidates in creative fields who need to showcase their design or artistic skills.
In 2025, employers in Kenya are looking for candidates who can present their skills clearly and effectively. While a Simple CV may be the most universally accepted, Functional and Creative CVs provide great alternatives depending on your specific circumstances. Always ensure that whichever format you choose, it remains clear, concise, and tailored to the job you’re applying for.
Final Thoughts
As we move into 2025, CV formatting is evolving, but some basic principles remain the same. Keep your CV simple and professional while tailoring it to suit the job you’re applying for. Always ensure it’s well-structured, ATS-friendly, and easy to read.
Ultimately, the best format is one that highlights your strengths and aligns with your career goals. Whether you opt for the traditional Simple CV, the skills-based Functional CV, or the eye-catching Creative CV, make sure your CV gives you the best chance to succeed in the competitive job market in Kenya.
By understanding the nuances of these three formats and choosing the one that best suits your professional background, you’ll be better equipped to impress hiring managers and secure your next opportunity in 2025!
