When I first started helping candidates refine their CVs over 15 years ago, fonts weren’t really top of mind. But with the fierce competition in today’s UK job market, I’ve seen how the choice of font can subtly influence first impressions—sometimes opening doors, sometimes closing them. The reality is, your font says more about you than you think. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about clarity, professionalism, and fitting the expectations of UK recruiters who skim dozens of CVs daily. Here’s what I’ve learned about the best CV fonts to use in the UK now.
Clear and Professional Fonts Matter
Choosing the right font is not fluff. It’s about readable, clean, and professional communication. What worked in 2010 might not fly today, where digital screens dominate and attention spans are shorter. The best fonts balance personality with restraint, helping your CV stand out without looking gimmicky or careless.
Classic Fonts That Never Fail
Fonts like Arial and Calibri have consistently done the job in my experience. They don’t distract, and they print well—which still matters in some UK sectors. Arial, especially, conveys straightforward professionalism. Calibri, modern and neat, benefits from its default status on many systems. I often advise clients to stick with these classics unless they’re in creative industries where a little flair can be tolerated.
Modern Serif Choices for a Traditional Edge
Serifs like Georgia create a subtle distinction. They give your CV a formal tone, which works well in law, finance, and government roles. I once worked with a client targeting a top London law firm who switched from a sans-serif to Georgia — the feedback was it looked “more trustworthy” on paper. But be wary: these fonts can look dense on screen, so spacing and size adjustments are crucial.
Avoid Overly Stylish or Script Fonts
Here’s what I’ve seen gone wrong: candidates choosing fonts that look trendy but unreadable. Fonts like Comic Sans or Brush Script scream casual and unprofessional. UK recruiters have little patience for this—they prefer fonts grounded in business reality. You want your CV to say, “I’m ready for work,” not “I’m here to party.”
Font Size and Spacing — The Unsung Heroes
It’s not just about font choice, but how you use it. I always tell candidates that 10-12 point font is the sweet spot—too small, and it’s a strain; too big, and it looks like you’re trying to fill space. Spacing between lines, margins, and paragraph breaks also influence readability. UK recruiting teams appreciate CVs that are easily scanned in moments, not ones that make their eyes work overtime.
Conclusion
The bottom line: the best CV font for UK job seekers today is about clarity, professionalism, and subtlety. Arial and Calibri are reliable go-tos; Georgia suits more traditional roles. Avoid fonts that are overly decorative or casual. Remember, your CV is your first handshake—make sure it’s firm, confident, and unmistakably professional.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best CV Font in UK
What font size should I use for my CV in the UK?
Generally, 10 to 12 points works best—big enough to read easily but small enough to fit your content neatly.
Is Calibri a safe choice for UK CVs?
Yes, Calibri is widely accepted and modern, making it a safe and professional choice for most industries.
Can I use serif fonts on my CV?
Absolutely, fonts like Georgia are good for traditional sectors like law and finance but ensure spacing and readability.
Should I avoid decorative fonts in UK CVs?
Yes, stay clear of fonts like Comic Sans or Script styles—they tend to look unprofessional to UK recruiters.
Does font choice influence ATS readability?
Yes, simple fonts like Arial and Calibri are ATS-friendly, ensuring your CV passes automated scans reliably.
How important is line spacing in my CV?
Very important—adequate spacing improves readability and creates a neat, professional appearance.
Can I use bold fonts for headings?
Yes, using bold for section headers helps recruiters quickly locate information on your CV.
Is it okay to use different fonts in one CV?
Generally, no. Stick to one font throughout to maintain consistency and a clean look.
What’s the impact of font on first impressions?
Fonts set the tone; professional fonts convey seriousness and competence instantly to UK recruiters.
Should I print my CV to check font choice?
Yes, printing helps ensure your font looks good both on screen and on paper, which is still relevant in many UK sectors.
