Insights

At Collins Property Recruitment, we work closely with some of the most respected names in the property industry and know what captures their attention. Through these partnerships, we gain valuable insight into what hiring managers look for when reviewing CVs.

When looking at a CV, employers want to see indicators of performance, potential, and professionalism. Your CV should tell a story about who you are, what you’ve achieved, and how you can add value to a business.

With that in mind, here are the key elements that consistently make a CV stand out:

1. Proven Results

Hiring managers want to see impact. If you are applying for a role in Property Management, rather than saying “Managed a portfolio of properties,” quantify it: “Managed a portfolio of 75 properties with 98% occupancy and 24-hour response time.” Tangible results show your contribution and professionalism. Use the following formula when listing key achievements:

• Action Verb: Led, Managed, Increased, Improved, Streamlined, Secured, Delivered, Implemented, etc.
• What You Did: A task or responsibility (e.g., sales strategy, project, client portfolio).
• Quantifiable Result/Impact: Include percentages, revenue, time saved, satisfaction scores, etc.
• How/Context: Tools, methods, or specific situations that clarify your contribution.

2. A Strong Profile Statement

You should always begin your CV with a strong, tailored personal statement that reflects your experience and ambition. Avoid vague phrases like “team player.” Instead, try: “Experienced Property Manager specialising in high-volume lettings and client retention across Central London.” Keep it brief, clear, and aligned with the role. 

3. Logical Career Progression

Employers value a clear path of growth and increasing responsibility. Highlight promotions, expanded portfolios, or leadership roles. A strong career narrative reassures hiring managers that you’re invested in your profession and capable of long-term contribution. If you’ve had gaps or short-term roles, be transparent, context matters and shows integrity. 

4. Relevance Over Volume

Your CV should be focused and no longer than two pages. Prioritise recent, relevant roles. Tailor each application to the specific job and avoid outdated or unrelated experience. Tailoring your application to the role you are applying for shows that you've taken the time to understand the employer’s needs and how your experience aligns with them. 

Final Touches

Presentation matters. Avoid overly designed layouts; instead, use a clean, professional format with consistent spacing and font choices that make it easy to read. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, and stick to clear, confident language that effectively communicates your experience and skills. Before submitting, ask someone else to review it, fresh eyes often catch overlooked mistakes and offer valuable feedback. A polished CV reflects your attention to detail and commitment to putting your best foot forward. 

At Collins Property Recruitment, we offer tailored CV support and advice to help you highlight your experience, achievements, and professional impact. Whether you're looking to refine your existing CV or need guidance on how to make it more results-driven, our team can help. Feel free to email us at info@collinspropertyrecruitment.com or give us a call on 020 7435 0309. We are always happy to help you take the next step in your property career with confidence.