The Evolution of the CV and What It Says About Us

Most of us know the feeling — it’s time to apply for a new role, but the thought of updating your CV instantly makes you want to clean the kitchen instead.

For something that’s meant to open doors, the CV can stir up frustration, self-doubt, and a surprising amount of procrastination. Because it’s never just about formatting or grammar — it’s about trying to fit who you’ve become into two neat pages that somehow never feel big enough.

But here’s the thing: the CV has always been personal.

And it’s been evolving for centuries.

The Evolution of the CV: From Leonardo to LinkedIn

The evolution of the CV stretches back to the 15th century, when Leonardo da Vinci wrote a letter to the Duke of Milan listing his inventions and talents. Even then, he was doing what we still do today — trying to translate skill into opportunity.

Since then, the CV has mirrored every era of work. From handwritten letters to typewritten pages, from glossy printouts to digital uploads, each version has reflected the time it was created in.

Today, it’s shifting again. But this time, the change isn’t just how we present ourselves — it’s why.

From Job History to Career Story

The modern CV is no longer a static list of responsibilities. It’s a story of value.

Employers aren’t just scanning for job titles — they’re searching for impact, adaptability, and growth.

Your CV now needs to show:

• How you think, not just what you do.

• How you’ve grown, not just where you’ve worked.

• What drives you, not just what’s expected of you.

We’re moving into an age where portfolios, project links, and personal branding matter just as much as traditional résumés. For some, the CV might eventually become more of a career snapshot — dynamic, digital, and ever-changing.

Why This Matters

Because your CV isn’t a task to tick off — it’s a mirror.

When done well, it reflects your growth, your contribution, and where you’re heading next.

So if you’ve been sending out applications and not hearing back, it might be time to look beyond the bullet points. Ask yourself:

Are you listing what you’ve done — or showing the difference you’ve made?

Let’s Make It Easier

At Pick a Path, we help you find the words for the incredible work you’ve already done — so your CV doesn’t just tell your story, it shows your impact.

We’re here to make sure your experience stands out for what it truly is: proof of what you’re capable of next.

🟡 Need help updating your CV or finding the right words?

Get in touch with us

— we’ll help you turn your experience into opportunity.

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Thanks for reading. Our hope with each edition is to create space to pause, reflect and rethink how we work. If this sparked something for you, we would love if you shared it with someone who might need to hear it. You can always connect with us at info@pickapath.co.nz or find more at pickapath.co.nz.