During her campaign for the Leeds West constituency, she presented herself as an economist at Halifax Bank of Scotland, a claim that later turned out to be a stretch of the truth.
While her campaign leaned on this experience to bolster her credentials, it’s since emerged that her work was focused on retail banking and support functions rather than macroeconomic strategy.
This controversy offers a lesson for both job seekers and recruiters: how people present their CVs matters, not just for accuracy but for what they choose to emphasize.
As someone who has reviewed countless CVs, I’ve developed a checklist for identifying what truly sets a candidate apart.
Beyond polished credentials and well-rehearsed titles, here are the five unconventional things I value most when reviewing a CV.
Transparency over titles
A flashy title might catch the eye, but what seals the deal is clarity about what the role actually entailed. Candidates who take the time to articulate their responsibilities and achievements – rather than dressing up titles to sound grander – exude authenticity.
If someone worked in a support role, for example, but made measurable contributions that enhanced team efficiency or client satisfaction, that honesty and detail stand out far more than an exaggerated claim. Integrity inspires trust – not just during recruitment but in the workplace.
A history of taking calculated risks
I love seeing CVs that reflect a candidate’s willingness to take risks. Whether it’s pivoting industries, starting a side business, or pursuing a project outside their comfort zone, these moves often come with valuable lessons. Risk-takers are problem-solvers. They don’t just adapt to change – they seek it out, demonstrating a level of courage and resilience that is invaluable in today’s fast-moving work environment.
Evidence of grassroots contributions
Sometimes, the most telling details are found in a candidate’s grassroots work—volunteer projects, contributions to local communities, or grassroots initiatives that required genuine hands-on effort. For example, someone who spearheaded a community financial literacy program or coached a local sports team shows they’re not just chasing personal gain but are invested in uplifting others. Grassroots contributions often showcase initiative, leadership, and empathy.
Lifelong learning, not just formal education Academic qualifications are important, but I always look for candidates who show evidence of continuous learning outside the classroom. Did they self-teach coding skills? Complete niche online certifications? Learn a new language to support their team?
These details often reveal more about a person’s drive than a prestigious degree. Lifelong learners bring something unique to the table: they don’t wait for opportunities to come to them; they create them. This thirst for knowledge and self-improvement is a hallmark of high performers.
Passion that translates into action
Everyone lists their “passions” on a CV, but what truly resonates is when that passion leads to tangible outcomes. Whether it’s an interest in sustainability leading to a company-wide recycling initiative or a love of technology resulting in an innovative app idea, these moments show how candidates turn their enthusiasm into action. This trait signals alignment between a person’s internal motivations and their professional goals. People who act on their passions are often self-starters who thrive without constant oversight.
The Rachel Reeves controversy is a timely reminder of the pitfalls of exaggeration and the value of presenting an honest narrative.
As an employer, I’m not looking for perfection—I’m looking for potential. What matters most isn’t a flawless CV but an authentic one that reflects character, creativity, and a willingness to grow.
Why? Because a career is less about where you’ve been and more about what you’re capable of achieving next.
