Two CVs, because two different things read it
An applicant tracking system reads your CV before a person does, and the two want opposite things. We deliver both versions so you’re never choosing between passing the filter and impressing the reader.
The two-reader problem
Most applications are parsed by software first. That software struggles with multi-column layouts, text inside graphics, tables, headers and footers, and unusual section names — exactly the features that make a CV look designed.
So the advice to “use a beautiful CV template” and the advice to “use a plain CV” are both right, for different readers. The answer is two files.
The ATS version is single-column, plain-structured, standard section headings, real text throughout. It looks ordinary and it parses perfectly.
The designed version is the one you send directly to a person, bring to an interview, or attach when there’s no filter in between. Typography, hierarchy, considered use of space — built to be read by someone who has forty of these to get through.
Same content, same person, two files. You use whichever the situation calls for.
What’s included
- Content review — structure, ordering, and where achievements are buried under duties
- ATS-optimised version — Word and PDF
- Designed version — PDF, plus editable source
- Cover letter template matching the designed CV
- LinkedIn profile alignment notes — where your profile contradicts your CV
- Two revision rounds
Pricing
| From | |
|---|---|
| CV design (both versions) | $120 |
| CV + cover letter template | $200 |
| Executive / senior CV | $250 |
| Academic CV | $200 |
| Content rewriting (added to any of the above) | $150 |
FAQ
How much does professional CV design cost?
CV design starts at $120 and includes both the ATS-safe version and the designed version, plus two revision rounds. A matching cover letter template adds $200. Executive and academic CVs, which are longer and more structurally complex, start at $250.
Will my CV pass applicant tracking systems?
The ATS version is built for it: single column, standard section headings, real selectable text, no graphics carrying information, no tables or text boxes. That’s what parsers handle reliably. No one can guarantee a specific system’s behaviour, which is exactly why you get a separate designed version for situations where a human reads it directly.
Do you write the content or only design it?
Design includes restructuring and editing what you provide — which usually means turning duty descriptions into achievements with numbers attached, and reordering so the strongest material is on page one. Full rewriting from a conversation or an old CV is available from $120.
How long does it take?
Usually 3 working days from receiving your current CV and answers to a short brief. Rush delivery is available, which matters more here than most projects — applications tend to have deadlines that arrive suddenly.
Can you design CVs for a specific industry?
Yes. Conventions differ sharply — academic CVs run long and list publications, creative CVs can carry more visual expression, and finance and law expect restraint. Tell us the sector and target roles and we’ll design to those expectations rather than a generic template.
Related
For company-facing documents, see one-pager design. Consultants and freelancers often need a personal brand identity and a simple landing page alongside the CV.
Tell us what you need.
You’ll get a scope, a price and a timeline within one working day — no call required unless you want one.