Start with a headline
In two or three lines, say what you do, for how long, in which sectors, and when you are available. For example: “Site manager with 15 years in education and healthcare refurbishment. SMSTS, first aid, CSCS Black. Available from March.”
Lead with projects, not job titles
For freelancers, the project list is the CV. For each recent project, include:
- Project name or description, and the client or main contractor.
- Value and duration.
- Your role and what you were responsible for, in a few bullet points.
- Anything that made it notable: a live environment, a tight programme, a specialist method.
Put the most recent and most relevant first. Older work can be summarised.
Make qualifications easy to check
List cards and training with expiry dates: CSCS, SMSTS or SSSTS, first aid, temporary works, NEBOSH or IOSH courses, and role-specific tickets. Add degrees and professional memberships such as CIOB, RICS, ICE or APM.
Practical details
- Where you are based and how far you will travel.
- Your availability, and your day rate if you are comfortable sharing it.
- Your business structure (sole trader or limited company), if relevant to the client.
- References available on request, with referees ready to be contacted.
What to leave out
Long personal statements, every job you have ever had, photos (unless asked) and personal details such as date of birth. Keep it to two or three pages.
Keep it current
Update your CV at the end of every contract while the details are fresh. On 3lanse, you can upload your current CV to fill your profile, then download a consistent PDF CV whenever you need it.