CV vs Interview - What matters more

CV vs Interview: What Really Gets You the Job?

When it comes to job hunting, there's a question nearly every candidate faces at some point: What matters more – your CV or your interview performance? It's a debate that continues to spark conversation, especially in competitive industries like construction, engineering, and professional services.

We break down the truth about CVs and interviews, explain why they each play a crucial role, and offer practical advice to help you secure your next role in the UK or Irish job market.

Why Your CV Still Matters

Your CV is often your first impression. Before a hiring manager ever meets you or picks up the phone, they scan your CV. And when we say scan, we mean it – studies show most CVs are reviewed for just 6 to 8 seconds on the first pass.

That means your CV needs to be:

• Clear and concise

• Tailored to the role

• Highlighting relevant skills, experience, and achievements

A strong CV won't get you the job on its own, but it will get you the interview. Without it, you may never even be considered.

The Interview: Where the Real Decision Is Made

Once you’ve made it through the CV stage, everything shifts. The interview is where the real judgement takes place. Employers want to know more than what’s written on paper – they want to see:

• How you communicate

• Your level of confidence

• How you approach problems

• Whether you’re the right cultural fit

A polished CV might get you into the room, but it’s the interview that determines whether you’ll move forward.

This is particularly true in industries like construction and engineering, where your ability to explain complex tasks, work well under pressure, and collaborate with teams often matters just as much as your technical experience.

So Which One Matters More – CV or Interview?

The honest answer? Both.

Think of it this way:

• Your CV is your ticket in

• Your interview is your ticket forward

You cannot afford to rely on one and neglect the other. Candidates with brilliant CVs can lose out if they don't interview well. Equally, strong communicators may never get the chance to shine if their CVs are poorly written or unfocused.

To truly stand out in today’s job market, you need to:

• Craft a CV that is clean, relevant, and results-driven

• Prepare for interviews with real examples, confidence, and research

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re applying for roles in construction, engineering, or any professional sector, don’t fall into the trap of overestimating one part of the process. The hiring journey is a combination of what you present on paper and how you present yourself in person.

At Breagh Recruitment, we help candidates every day strengthen both their CVs and their interview skills. If you're ready to take your next step, reach out to our team for support, advice, and access to some of Ireland and the UK’s top construction opportunities.

📞 Armagh: +44 (0)2838897882 / Dublin: 00353(0)15314345

📧 info@breaghrecruitment.com

🌐 www.breaghrecruitment.com