Software Developer CV template : Free ‘Connect Lite’ design in Microsoft Word

Here’s page one of this software developer CV template:

And here’s page two:

Required fonts

These are the two required fonts (free) for this software developer CV template – you should install these first, before opening up and editing the template.

• Jenna Sue – this provides the gorgeous title and prompt to connect at the bottom.
• Open Sans – everything else is in Open Sans (regular)

NB: This template was first publish on 21st February 2019 and has now been completely updated.

4 big mistakes to avoid on your software developer CV template

Getting to the interview stage is all about passing the CV test. Did you include all the sections? Have you used a CV template? Did you proofread it before you sent the email?

There are lots of things you have to check before you send out your CV, and just the one mistake could end your chances of reaching the next stage. To help you write the best possible CV, here are the 4 biggest mistakes you’re making on your CV…

Lengthy sentences

You only have 2 pages to impress an employer – so make them count!

Everything you write on your CV should add value and be relevant to the role and the industry. Always tailor your CV to the requirements as specified in the job advert, and take note of exactly what the employer is looking for.

Having read back through your CV after a first draft, you will often find irrelevant information and lengthy sentences that don’t have to be there. Always get straight to the point and focus upon your skills and achievements that align with the role.

Use bullet points where possible to help steer clear of lengthy passive phrases. A good example of this is when you are listing your tasks for a previous role – there is no need to write a lengthy sentence detailing your daily routines, when a few bullet points could some things up very quickly.

If you’ve got a lot to cram in a small space, check out our full range of CV templates and choose one that achieves a great balance between including lots of information and applying proper spacing.

Exaggerated accomplishments

You should never embellish or exaggerate anything on your CV. An experienced hiring manager who has read through lots of CVs could spot a lie on your CV and end your chances of an interview right there and then.

Be accurate and honest about your skills and qualifications, but remain positive about what you can do rather than what you can’t. If you feel you are lacking in certain skills or qualifications, then why not consider gaining these attributes rather than pretending you already have them.

Most candidates don’t tick all the boxes that an employer advertises for in a job posting, so focus upon what you can do and remain positive and relevant within your CV. There are various stages throughout the hiring process where you will be caught out for your embellishments, so if you do make it to the interview or even get hired, there’s still a big chance that your manager or a colleague will recognise that you are not quite up to the task!

Too much technical jargon

It’s always a good idea to try and impress the employer will technical jargon and industry know-how, but you don’t want to take this too far. Your CV should be used to highlight your skills and attributes that will benefit the employer if they hire you – it should not be an instruction manual!

You don’t want to come over as a ‘smarty pants’, and although the hiring manager will always appreciate your understanding and knowledge of the role and the industry, they are not looking for someone who is out to prove a point. The worst thing you can do on your CV is portray arrogance or over confidence, so don’t overdo it.

Irrelevant hobbies and interests

If you like to socialise on the weekends, read magazines or go to the cinema – then fine, what’s wrong with that? The problem however is that if your hobbies do not further demonstrate your hard or soft skills within your CV, then you are not gaining anything by putting these hobbies down.

If this sounds like you, then why not consider removing this section altogether as it won’t do you any favours and will be of no interest to the hiring manager. However, this doesn’t mean to say there aren’t any extracurricular activities that won’t impress and provide further proof of your skills.

Remember, you CV is all about showcasing what you have to offer – but the hiring manager also has to believe what you are saying holds weight. A great way to strengthen your claims is to share your hobbies that align with some of the skills on your CV.

Think about a hobby where you interact with other people, organise events, give presentations, work as a team player, be creative, help to build a project etc. These types of hobbies are fantastic to have on your CV, and will indirectly provide evidence of your skills and attributes. Find out more about the hobbies and interests section on your CV here.

TIP: Not sure what the employer is really looking for? Sometimes job ads can be a little sparse on detail. Job profiles are a great way to get inspired when filling out your software developer CV template – for example:

• National Careers Service – Software developer
• Prospects.ac.uk – Software engineer