When browsing options across our CV writing service Eastbourne hub, one format consistently stands out for flexibility and performance — the combination CV. It merges the strengths of both chronological and skills-based CVs, making it one of the most versatile formats available to UK job seekers.
If you’ve struggled to present your experience clearly, have gaps in employment, or want to pivot into a new field, this format can give you an advantage. Below, you’ll find detailed combination CV examples UK employers expect, alongside templates, expert insights, and real-world strategies.
A combination CV (sometimes called a hybrid CV) brings together two key elements:
Unlike a purely chronological layout, which focuses heavily on job history, or a functional CV that prioritises skills alone, this format strikes a balance. That’s why it’s often recommended alongside professional CV types in the UK as a go-to option for mid-level and experienced candidates.
This format isn’t always the best choice — but when used correctly, it can significantly improve how recruiters perceive your profile.
To perform well, your CV must follow a structure that feels natural to recruiters.
Recruiters typically scan CVs in seconds. By placing your strongest skills and achievements at the top, you immediately capture attention — before they even reach your job history.
Profile: Results-driven marketing specialist with 7+ years’ experience in digital campaigns and brand strategy.
Core Skills:
Key Achievements:
Work Experience:
Marketing Manager – ABC Ltd (2020–Present)
[Your Name]
Contact Details
Profile
Short summary of your expertise and career focus
Core Skills
Achievements
Work Experience
Job Title – Company
Education
One mistake many applicants make is using the same CV everywhere. That approach rarely works. Employers expect a CV that reflects their specific role.
Learn more about this approach in our guide on how to tailor your CV for job applications in the UK.
| Format | Best For | Weakness |
|---|---|---|
| Chronological | Stable career history | Highlights gaps |
| Functional | Skills focus | Lacks credibility |
| Combination | Balanced approach | Requires careful structuring |
For a deeper breakdown, see our full guide on functional CV format UK.
Recruiters don’t read line by line. They scan. The first 10–15 seconds determine whether your CV stays or gets rejected.
That means:
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The main advantage is flexibility. A combination CV allows you to present your strongest skills and achievements first while still providing a clear employment history. This is particularly useful for candidates who want to highlight transferable skills or shift industries. Unlike purely chronological CVs, it doesn’t lock you into a rigid timeline. Instead, it helps control how your story is presented, making it easier to guide recruiters toward your strengths.
Yes, most UK employers accept combination CVs, especially in modern industries like marketing, IT, and business services. However, traditional sectors may still prefer chronological formats. The key is clarity — if your CV is easy to read and directly relevant to the job, format becomes less important. Recruiters care more about what you bring to the role than strict adherence to format rules.
Typically, a combination CV should be no longer than two pages. This ensures readability and keeps the recruiter engaged. If you have extensive experience, focus on the most relevant roles and achievements rather than listing everything. Quality matters more than quantity. A concise, targeted CV will outperform a longer document filled with unnecessary details.
It’s possible, but not ideal. Entry-level candidates usually benefit more from a simple chronological or skills-based CV. However, if you have internships, projects, or transferable skills, a combination format can still work. The key is to demonstrate value through achievements, even if they come from education or personal projects.
The biggest mistake is duplication. Many candidates repeat the same information in the skills and experience sections, which wastes space and reduces impact. Each section should add something new. Skills should introduce strengths, while experience should prove them with evidence. Keeping this distinction clear makes your CV more effective.
Yes, but only if it adds value. A skills section should highlight abilities that directly match the job you’re applying for. Avoid generic terms like “hardworking” or “team player.” Instead, focus on specific, measurable skills that demonstrate your capability. When done correctly, this section becomes one of the most powerful parts of your CV.