Why Your CV Isn’t Getting You Interviews (and How to Fix It) with Victoria McLean

By Molly Benjamin, Founder of Ladies Finance Club

Listen to the full podcast here.

In today’s hyper-competitive job market, your CV (or resume) needs to do more than just list your experience, it needs to sell your value.

In this episode of Get Rich, Molly chats with resume writing expert Victoria McLean, who has reviewed over 250,000 CVs and worked across global markets including Australia, the UK, the Middle East, and the US. Victoria shares her top career advice, the biggest CV mistakes that cost you interviews, and how to stand out (without relying too heavily on AI in recruitment).

Whether you're applying for your next big job, planning a career transition, or returning to work after a break, this episode is full of practical tips for improving your job application success.

Why Your CV Might Be Letting You Down

Victoria breaks down the three biggest CV mistakes:

1. Not tailoring your CV: One size does not fit all. Recruiters want to know how you're a perfect match for the role.
2. Lack of value: Hiring managers want to see how you can bring measurable results.
3. No context: Always explain the size, scale, and impact of your roles.

The Role of AI and the Applicant Tracking System (ATS)

Most companies use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to screen CVs. If your CV includes content in tables, columns, or fancy templates, it may not be readable by the system. Victoria also cautions against using AI-generated CVs, especially with companies like PwC that ban AI-written job applications. AI can help generate structure or ideas, but your voice and value must shine through.

The Power of Keywords in Job Applications

Keywords are critical for both ATS and human recruiters. Review the job ad and include relevant keywords like job titles, software, regions, or skills. This not only helps you pass the ATS filter but also ensures a recruiter scanning your CV in under five seconds sees what they’re looking for.

What About Design? Keep It Simple

Avoid logos, headshots, tables, and text boxes. While it’s tempting to buy a cute template off Etsy, most of those designs confuse the ATS and lower your chances of being seen.

How to Handle Career Breaks and Career Transitions

Victoria recommends:

• A short note in your profile stating you're returning from a career break.
• Including the break in your work history to explain gaps.
• If you volunteered, freelanced, studied, or built a side hustle, include it!

For a career transition, highlight your transferable skills and value. Consider volunteering, upskilling, or side projects to build experience and incorporate the right keywords.

LinkedIn vs. CV: What’s the Difference?

Your LinkedIn profile should complement, not copy, your CV. Keep it more conversational, in the first person, and tailored to the broader networking audience you want to reach - clients, colleagues, recruiters, or collaborators.

CVs are formal and focused. LinkedIn is your chance to build connections and get found for new opportunities.

Final CV Formatting Tips

Victoria’s winning CV structure:

• Name + contact details + LinkedIn link
• Target job title
• Short, sharp executive summary (not your life story)
• Experience with quantified achievements
• Key skills section (at the bottom)
• Education + personal interests (if relevant)

Your CV is a marketing document. It should be concise, clear, keyword-optimised, and focused on value. Whether you’re aiming to re-enter the job market, pivot industries, or land your dream role, the right CV can be a game-changer.

Check out our course. We collaborated with City CV to help you create an awesome CV! 

👩‍💻 Need help with your CV, LinkedIn, or job application strategy? Victoria and her team offer coaching, writing, and interview prep services for professionals across all industries.