Welcome to viewpoint

Careers & workplace advice from Hays

This is the second section in our two-part series on the top workplace trends in 2026, helping professionals navigate upcoming challenges. 

If you missed the first part in our series, go back and learn more in this blog. 

In 2026, five trends are set to reshape the workplace:  

  • AI will become a core skill, not an add-on. 
  • You’ll need to fight ‘FOBO’. 
  • Entry level roles will continue to decline. 
  • Authenticity will matter more than ever.  
  • Life Sciences will offer new career opportunities.  

Introduction 

As the new year rolls around, it’s time to look at the top workplace trends in 2026 for professionals – and there’s only one place to start. 

Artificial Intelligence and automation are embedding themselves into the way we work like never before. AI is impacting job searches, daily tasks and even career paths. 

Your ability to use AI tools effectively, consistently and ethically will define your career success in 2026. That’s why, this year, we’re exploring the different ways these technologies will impact you.  

In this blog, we’ll be examining how to retain your authenticity, and how the Life Sciences industry is opening up exciting opportunities for skilled workers. 

What does authenticity mean in 2026?  

Summary: AI makes it easier to embellish applications, but authenticity is now critical for jobseekers. 

Key facts: 

  • Half of adults have lied on their CV, with 41% exaggerating responsibilities. 
  • Recruiters are more vigilant for AI-generated or falsified information. 
  • You’ll need to find the balance between an authentic application and an optimised CV to become a candidate of choice.  

Dig deeper:  

There’s no denying that generative AI tools have proven hugely beneficial for many jobseekers. In fact, we’ve already provided advice on several ways that Copilot or ChatGPT can help you with your cover letter or CV. 

However, there’s a difference between polishing an application, and adding information that simply isn’t true. CareCheck reports that half of adults have lied on their CV, while 41% have exaggerated past responsibilities. 

This is nothing new, of course, but the consequences are evolving in an increasingly tense geopolitical and security-focused climate. Moreover, AI offers more methods of deceiving recruiters and hiring managers.  

As a result, the person responsible for assessing your job application will be incredibly wary of any information that seems suspicious. In 2026, there will be greater focus on anything that seems AI-generated, since it increases the likelihood of fake information.  

At the same time, AI doesn’t just make it easier to lie – it makes it easier for recruiters to spot the falsehoods. 

Where does that leave you in your job search? It certainly doesn’t mean you should stop using AI tools, but you should ensure that the output is factually correct and representative of you.  

At the same time, making yourself stand out as the ideal recruit is no longer about a perfectly-written cover letter – AI tools have empowered everyone to do this, so how does it make you special? Finding the right balance between a human, authentic application and an optimised CV will make you the candidate of choice. 

For more guidance on how to write a perfect CV in 2026, start our blog series here. 

Where are the biggest career opportunities emerging?  

Summary: Life Sciences is leading global growth, with AI accelerating innovation and creating urgent demand for new skills. 

Key facts: 

  • Life Sciences is a top growth sector globally. 
  • AI is revolutionising clinical trials, patient monitoring and disease discovery. 
  • Less than 15% of talent within the sector is considered ‘AI-ready’. 

Dig deeper:  

In a challenging job market, there are still opportunities to find a rewarding career in certain industries. Chief among these is Life Sciences which, as outlined in the Hays Global Talent Tracker, is leading the way in terms of growth globally. 

There’s also plenty of excitement over AI’s potential to revolutionise the industry. The speed with which machine learning algorithms can analyse data and identify successful clinical trials is accelerating. It’s also enabling more accurate patient monitoring and discovery of diseases – as well as treatments. 

Despite these promising signs and AI’s growing influence, employers are facing a shortage of skills in key areas. Top candidates will have an understand of what AI is capable of, and where the human touch still matters. 

According to James Nyssen, Hays’ Global Head of Life Sciences: “AI is accelerating scientific discovery at a pace we’ve never seen before, which is creating exceptional career opportunities across the Life Sciences. The most in-demand professionals will be those who understand not only the capabilities of AI, but also where human expertise continues to be critical. Talent that can bridge data and biology will shape the breakthroughs that define the future of healthcare. 

“While AI is transforming everything from clinical trials to patient monitoring, there is still a significant shortage of professionals with the skills to harness its full potential. That gap presents a huge opportunity for candidates in 2026. Employers are looking for people who can translate advanced technologies into better patient outcomes — and they’re ready to invest in the talent who can do that.” 

Looking for more insights? Read part one in our 2026 workplace trends series here. 

This is the first part in a two-part series on workplace trends in 2026.

Look out for part two of the series later this month, where we’ll explore two more areas of focus for professionals.

In 2026, five trends are set to reshape the workplace:  

  • AI will become a core skill, not an add-on. 
  • You’ll need to fight ‘FOBO’. 
  • Entry level roles will continue to decline. 
  • Authenticity will matter more than ever.  
  • Life Sciences will offer new career opportunities.  

Introduction 

As the new year rolls around, it’s time to look at the top workplace trends in 2026 for professionals – and there’s only one place to start. 

Artificial Intelligence and automation are embedding themselves into the way we work like never before. AI is impacting job searches, daily tasks and even career paths. 

Your ability to use AI tools effectively, consistently and ethically will define your career success in 2026. That’s why, this year, we’re exploring the different ways these technologies will impact you.  

In the first of our two-part series, you’ll discover why now is the time to start upskilling and what you can do to take the next step. Read part two here.

Why is AI a core skill in 2026?  

Summary: AI skills are no longer a competitive edge; they are a core requirement for career growth.  

Key facts:  

  • 81% increase in LinkedIn members with AI skills since last year. 
  • Demand for AI skills is rising across all professions, not just tech. 
  • Candidates with an aptitude for continuous learning will come out on top.  

Dig deeper: 

LinkedIn Talent Insights indicates an 81% increase of members on the platform with Artificial Intelligence skills since last year. As we explored in our 2025 Future of Work report, many organisations are “hyper-focused on getting themselves ‘AI-ready’” and prioritising a future-ready workforce.  

Despite this rapid growth, there’s still a large disparity between employer demand and professionals with the right skills. 

So where does that leave you? 

Firstly, this isn’t just relevant for people in tech.  

  • Marketing professionals on LinkedIn with AI skills have doubled in the last 12 months, including Social Media Managers (107% increase) and Marketing Analysts (117%).  
  • Similarly, there’s been a 119% growth in Graphic Designers boasting these skills, and 115% for Public Relations Specialists.  

If you aren’t able to prove that you’ve got these capabilities on your LinkedIn profile, you’re being left behind. 

However, you can also take it one step further and dedicate yourself to a role that doesn’t just incorporate Artificial Intelligence, but lives and breathes it. For example, the number of LinkedIn members listing “AI” and “financial reporting” as combined skills has grown by 144% since last year. 

It’s time to stop thinking about AI as something to help you in your responsibilities and decide how it can be fully integrated into your workflows. Candidates who can demonstrate futureproof ways of working (and an aptitude for continuous upskilling) are the ones that employers will bet on. 

How can professionals fight FOBO?  

Summary: FOBO is widespread, but upskilling and proactive learning are the best defences. 

Key facts: 

  • Only 21% of professionals are optimistic about their career prospects in the next 2–5 years. 
  • 88% are willing to upskill in AI, but only 41% of organisations offer AI training. 
  • Under half (42%) of professionals below director level use AI regularly. 

Dig deeper:  

Even in 2023, FOBO – or Fear of Becoming Obsolete – was mentioned by McKinsey and the WEF. People were doubting whether they had the skills to thrive in a post-pandemic workplace and generative AI’s rapid evolution only exacerbated those concerns. 

However, although the term might sound like a trend, it was more widespread that that – and it’s not gone away, either. 

Research from Hays’ most recent Salary Guides worldwide has found the following: 

  • Under half (42%) of professionals below director level are using AI regularly. 
  • Across all seniority levels, only 21% of respondents are optimistic that their career prospects will improve in the next 2-5 years. 
  • The ability to learn and upskill was rated as the most important human skill (or soft skill) in today’s world of work. 

These stats suggest that many professionals are unfamiliar with the AI tools that will help them. Despite understanding the importance to improve in this area, too few employers are providing support. While 88% of respondents state they would be willing to upskill in AI, only 41% of organisations offer training on AI tools to their employees. 

If you’re in this position, you’re not alone – but there are ways to get ahead. We’ve covered this in more detail in this blog, but the three key strategies are: 

  • Technical training: take online courses to help you learn more. 
  • Hands-on experience: experiment with different tools and understand how they can support you in your existing responsibilities. Search for tips and tutorials that can help you with different use cases. 
  • Staying up to date with industry trends: with such rapidly changing technology, you won’t stay ahead for long if you sit still. Subscribe to relevant newsletters or follow thought leaders on platforms such as LinkedIn to keep informed. 

How is automation impacting early careers?   

Summary: Automation is reducing the volume of entry-level roles available, especially in process-driven jobs. 

Key facts: 

  • AI could eliminate 50% of entry-level white-collar roles by 2030. 
  • The biggest impact is seen in tech and marketing roles. 
  • Extra-curricular activities will become key differentiators in the application process.  

Dig deeper:AI’s disruption of the job market took a further step in May when Anthropic CEO, Dario Amodei, declared that AI could potentially eliminate 50% of entry-level white-collar roles by 2030.  

Those at risk? Jobs involving repetitive processes, especially where errors are minimal (or carry fewer consequences). 

Our Future of Work report has already highlighted the drop in hiring for software developers, as generative AI writes the code that’s usually managed by junior programmers. Although UK graduates have most commonly cited coding as the skill they fear AI will make obsolete, it’s not just junior tech roles that are disappearing.  

In the EMEA region, the biggest YoY decrease in entry-level hiring has been within Marketing. In the USA, Goldman Sachs and the US Bureau of Labor Statistics have also seen hiring in Marketing Consulting and Graphic Design plummet since 2022. 

What can less experienced jobseekers do to get a foot on the ladder? Although it might seem counterintuitive, when it comes to job hunting, maybe less is more. 

In an appearance on the Hays ‘How Did You Get That Job?’ podcast, James Hutt from tech consultancy Paradigm Junction promoted spending more time on fewer applications. This will not only enable you to prioritise the jobs you actually want, but shows your eagerness to work for the employers that matter. Beyond that, it’s about separating yourself through your attitude and extra-curricular accomplishments. 

“How easy is it to distinguish yourself amongst your peers when you all look the same at 21, or even 25? How do you show that you’re someone who’s motivated and can learn new things? Simply writing those words on an application is not proving your value in the way it did before.  

Some of the best candidates are doing public speaking, writing or running voluntary organisations outside their academics so that they have some experience to point to.” 

Read part two in our series here. 

Starting a job search can open up exciting possibilities for the next step in your career. Sadly, it’s also an opportunity for scammers to engage with you, offering you the perfect role in exchange for valuable information – or even money. 

This is a worldwide issue. Reports of fake recruiters have led to losses of $49m in Canada and have doubled over a two-year period in the UK – and it’s happening where you are, too. As a result, how can you tell the difference between a real job vacancy and a scam? 

In this blog, we’ll explore the red flags that suggest this opportunity is too good to be true.

Why are you being targeted with a recruitment scam? 

In a typical scam, you’ll receive a message from someone claiming to work at an existing, established organisation. They’re hoping that you recognise the brand and might even reference a real opportunity on the company’s official website. Never assume that someone who appears to work for a major recruitment group is in fact an employee. Alternatively, you might not recognise their supposed agency, but they present themselves as an authentic recruiter.

Even if you don’t make any payments to these people, that doesn’t mean you’re not at risk. In some cases, the purpose of the scam is to obtain more of your personal data. The scammer can then use or sell this for other purposes, such as identity theft. 

That’s why it’s important to avoid or ignore these recruitment scams from the outset, or disengage as quickly as possible once you’ve realised that this isn’t a real opportunity. 

What are the warning signs of a recruitment scam? 

This isn’t a complete list of red flags, since scamming methods are constantly evolving. Fraudsters can easily use AI to generate fake profile pictures, or write messages similar to those from a genuine recruiter. However, any of the issues on the list below is a good indicator that the person you’re speaking to isn’t who they seem to be. 

  1. They contact you with an unsolicited message via email, SMS, WhatsApp, social media, or job boards offering a guaranteed job or income. 
  2. They have a low number of LinkedIn connections (especially if there aren’t many from the same recruitment agency) or engagement with colleagues in their posts. 
  3. Their LinkedIn profile contains generic job titles or descriptions, or has no active history (such as comments, likes or posts). 
  4. They use a personal email address (such as @gmail.com) or a lookalike domain (such as @haysjobs.com instead of @hays.com). 
  5. You don’t have a live conversation with them, either by phone or over video. 
  6. They send you a job offer letter or specification that looks unprofessional. This is harder to spot now that AI tools can help scammers to create them to a professional standard. Look for incorrect company branding (research their latest logo and strapline) or an absence of contact details on the letter.  
  7. The job offer doesn’t detail the skills required, or specifies basic skills and platforms. 
  8. They ask you to make a payment. Never send any money to secure a job or “mandatory” training – no authentic recruitment company would request this.
  9. Their offer is too good to be true, with a far higher salary you know is normal (check the typical salary for a role using Hays Salary Guide). 
  10. They push you to send your details quickly and tell you that everything needs to be done urgently, giving you less time to assess them or conduct any research. 

What should you do if you suspect a recruitment scam? 

There are three things that you immediately must NOT do if you suspect a recruitment scam: 

  1. Open any attachments or follow any links in their communication. 
  1. Provide personal details beyond what is available on your LinkedIn profile. 
  1. Send any money or provide payment details 

If you’re still unsure as to whether that person is who they say they are, then there are some further steps you can take: 

  1. Research: Explore their company website and look into when the business was founded. Search for reviews and see if their site appears on anti-scamming websites such as scamwarners.com. If the recruiter claims to be from a larger, trusted company, the see whether the job advert is on their website and apply directly. 
  1. Report: LinkedIn are very proactive in detecting and blocking scammers. If you believe someone could be a fake recruiter, select the ‘More’ button at the top of their profile page and select ‘Report/Block’. 

Stay vigilant 

You may be struggling to find employment in your sector, but it’s important that you remain patient and vigilant so you don’t end up being duped by fraudsters. Be thorough, stop to think, and consider the above advice each time you’re contacted with a job offer to protect yourself. 

Looking for tips on writing the perfect CV? Our perfect CV template offers free tips, explanations and examples to help you craft a standout application.

This page offers you a step-by-step guide on how to write a CV. After you’ve read each of the blogs on this page, you’ll be ready to send an application that truly impresses your next employer. 

We start with a quick overview of what a good application looks like, before moving directly into the CV structure. You’ll find in-depth advice on how to write a Personal Statement and lay out your Employment History, with tips on using persuasive language. You’ll also learn which skills to put on your CV and the best ways to do this. 

After this, we look at the things to avoid in a perfect CV. Using real CV examples, we’ll explain what to check for during your review and how to make the right changes. In today’s world of work, your digital profile can be the difference between a new job and continuing your job search, so we also explore how to elevate yours. Lastly, there are tips on crafting your CV cover letter to further help you tell your story. 

Ready? Let’s start writing your CV! 

Part 1: Understanding your CV 

Before you begin writing a CV, you’ll need to determine what’s needed to impress the reader. Since you’ll be tailoring your generic (or template) CV for every role, it’s best to decide this now so that it saves you time in the long run. 

In our first blog, we look at what your CV should tell the reader if you’re to be successful: 

Part 2: Write your CV 

Next, we move onto how to write a CV. 

Whether your CV is being reviewed by an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) tool or a human being, there’s an easy trick you can deploy to stand out as a more impressive candidate. This is something you should be taking advantage of throughout your CV. Our blog on this includes examples that every perfect CV template should feature to stand out: 

CV structure 

Then it’s time to move through the CV, from top to bottom. There’s no single correct CV layout, but our perfect CV template outlines best practices you can employ to make sure you’ve got the perfect CV structure for you. 

After your name and contact details, you should begin with your personal statement, which summarises who you are and what you want from your next career move. Our blog includes detailed examples of how to start your CV: 

Next, your Employment History, which will comprise the majority of your CV. Your current or most recent role should be at the top, before working backwards. Your CV should tell a story of who you are – if some of your early positions aren’t relevant, it’s ok to omit these or put less focus on them. For each role, provide the:​ 

  • Job title​ 
  • Company (and location)​ 
  • Dates of employment​ 
  • Type of contract 
  • Bullet points with more details 

It’s a common misconception that the Employment History section should simply list your past responsibilities. Our next blog looks at how you can showcase your achievements, with CV examples for different successes and roles: 

After this, you should list your skills so that they’re easy to scan. Although your CV should include examples in your Employment History, it’s worth adding a clear, dedicated section, too. Beyond your technical skills (such as analytics tools or other software), our blog looks at which soft (or human) skills to put on your CV: 

Beyond these four sections, your CV layout can vary. Some candidates early in their career might want to include their Education section before looking at Achievements. For others, listing any recent certifications or accomplishments might take precedence over their most recent formal education. A perfect CV will include both, regardless. 

Adapt your CV to your career stage 

Depending on where you are in your career, there are other ways to write a CV that can help your application. Otherwise, you’re ready to move onto Part 3. 

If you’re at the start of your career, you might be concerned about whether you’ve developed enough experience or skills to make your CV stand out. If you don’t know what to put on your CV in this scenario, our blogs can guide you on what to do: 

Alternatively, if you’re currently applying for a job following a redundancy, it’s important to be honest about the situation. At the same time, there are ways to do this so that you present yourself as a proactive candidate: 

Part 3: Before applying 

The above template will help you to write a comprehensive CV, but you’re not done yet. 

Start with a thorough CV review. The first thing to look for are any overused cliches that will weaken the impact of your application, followed by the removal of common mistakes that further harm your chances of success: 

Following your CV review, it’s time to make sure your digital profile is at its best. From optimising your LinkedIn account to creating a portfolio or website, we look at ways to enhance your employability: 

Part 4: Apply for the job 

You’re almost ready to submit your CV. Before you go ahead and hit ‘Send’, there are a couple more things to check off the list. 

Should you be successful in your application, you’ll need to provide references. Instead of rushing to organise this when you’re about to sign the contract, it’s best to be proactive: 

And what about a CV cover letter? Where possible, writing one page to accompany your application give you an extra opportunity to tell your story and expand on your unique selling points: 

Keeping your CV up to date 

When the time comes to update your CV, there are quick ways to do this without a full rewrite. Make sure you’re ready to respond to opportunities and apply quickly with these tips: 

This list of blogs should provide you with the perfect CV template to help you land your dream job. By following each of these steps, you’ll be able to write a CV that ticks all the boxes and give you an advantage in your job search. 

Good luck! 

On paper, writing about yourself should be the easiest thing in the world. However, when it comes to putting pen to that paper and writing a personal statement for your CV, it suddenly seems a lot harder. 

The personal statement is your first impression to hiring managers and recruiters, so it’s understandable that you’re anxious about getting it right. At the same time, there are lots of ways to get it wrong. 

In this blog, we look at what you need to do to write an emphatic personal statement, with expert advice and examples for you to draw from. 

What is a personal statement? 

Your personal statement is essentially a short introduction to yourself as a professional. It should be at the top of your CV, and succinctly cover who you are, what you’re good at and what you want to do next. See it as a brief opportunity to pitch yourself to a potential employer. 

While your CV will probably be first scanned by an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) tool to verify your suitability for the vacancy, the personal statement will be the first thing a hiring manager checks when CV reaches them. 

As a result, writing a strong personal statement will significantly your chances of being invited for an interview.  

Examples of what your personal statement should include 

Your personal statement may only be one short paragraph, but that makes the structure even more important. You’ll need to summarise who you and what you’ll bring to the table, all while ensuring it’s relevant for the role. 

The best way to do this is to break down your personal statement into three parts: 

  1. Introduction – start by explaining who you are and what level of experience you have. For example: “I’m a hands-on Finance Manager with strong stakeholder engagement skills and a results-driven attitude.” 
  1. Skills and experience – Outline your key skills and evidence the achievements which set you apart from the competition. For example: “With six years’ industry experience, I’m able to increase visibility within a business, drive efficiencies and implement cost-saving measures that increase profits and provide a greater return on investment.” 
  1. Ambitions for the future – Finish with what you’re looking to achieve next in your career, ensuring it aligns with the role. This will instantly indicate to the hiring manager that you should be shortlisted for an interview. For example: “I would now like to develop my skills in a global business environment, where I can progress my career within accountancy.” 

Following this plan will help you to hit all the key points you need to get across, while keeping things short and sweet. 

Examples of how to write your personal statement with AI tools

Consider using ChatGPT or Copilot to help you write the first draft of your personal statement. Provide it with a few bullet points that cover the three sections on the left, or ask it to write something based on your career history. 

Alternatively, you can write the first draft yourself, before asking an AI tool to suggest improvements, based on the job description. 

What to remember 

  1. Adopt a formal but warm tone – your first impression should be professional. 
  2. Don’t write more than 100 words – a personal statement should be a concise summary of your professional profile. If you want to go into more detail about your story and ambitions, you can expand on this in a cover letter.
  3. Include relevant action verbs to evidence achievements – this will convey your success in previous roles and what you can bring to the organisation. 
  4. Use keywords from the job description – the Applicant Tracking System will search for anything relevant to the role. Extract keywords and include them in your introduction, but don’t pack too many in. 
  5. Tailor your personal statement to each role you apply for – changing this every time won’t take long, but is definitely worth the effort. 
  6. Keep everything in the first person – just as with the rest of your CV, consistency is key. 

Next steps 

Once you’ve written and proofread your personal statement, both by yourself and with the help of the AI tool, it’s time to move onto the Employment History section of your CV. 

Learn the best way to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities to date in our next blog. 

Click here to view our full step-by-step series on writing the perfect CV.

It’s no secret that an up-to-date and professional LinkedIn profile can help you in your job search to get noticed by recruiters – whether you’re actively looking for a new role, or open to opportunities.  

In today’s job market, your digital presence is just as important as your CV, as recruiters and hiring managers often look beyond your application to see how you present yourself online. 

However, this doesn’t just apply to LinkedIn. Promoting your skills and experience via an online portfolio is no longer limited to graphic designers or software developers – it’s an effective way to share your story and explain how it will continue with a potential employer during your job search. 

Here’s how to make sure your digital profile gives you the best chance of success.​ 

Three ways to make your professional LinkedIn profile for job searches 

1. Optimise your LinkedIn profile​ 

If you’re using LinkedIn to search for (or even apply to) jobs, you need to have a professional profile that’s up to scratch. It’s the first impression you’ll give to a lot of people who can help you find your next role, so it’s worth the effort. 

  • Ensure your LinkedIn profile mirrors your CV in terms of job titles, dates and achievements.​ 
  • Add a professional photo, which has been found to make your profile 14 times more likely to receive visits.​ 
  • Write a headline and summary that highlight your strengths and aspirations – this should align with your personal statement.​ 
  • Connect with peers and other professionals in your field and engage with content that’s relevant to the role you want.  

There are several ways that generative AI tools can help you with this: 

  • Your LinkedIn photo doesn’t need to be a professional headshot. However, you could experiment with AI tools that allow you to create this effect from existing photos.​ 
  • As with your personal statement, consider ChatGPT or Copilot to help you craft a LinkedIn summary.​ 
  • It’s important that your LinkedIn profile reflects you in the best possible light. Try tools such as Resume Worded, which can help you optimise your page. 

However, unless you’re going to edit and personalise the content, it’s best to refrain from using AI to write messages to other members. Although it undoubtedly makes it quicker and easier to make connections, you’re losing the personal touch that’s important when building a network that can support your ambitions. For a better understanding of how well your LinkedIn profile is performing compared to others in your industry or network, you can check your Social Selling Index scores here. 

Lastly, although it can be tempting, do not use the ‘Easy Apply’ option when submitting applications. A generic CV is highly unlikely to align perfectly with the job specification. It also signifies a lack of effort, which in turn implies that you’re not particularly interested in the role. 

2. Create a personal website or portfolio​ 

If you’re in a creative or technical field, a personal website or online portfolio can showcase your work more dynamically than a CV. Platforms such as Wix, Squarespace and GitHub Pages can help you set up.​ 

Ideas include: 

  • A blog about your chosen field or industry, or an extracurricular passion (particularly if your ideal role involves writing or strong communication skills. 
  • A portfolio (this can include projects away from work – especially if you’re thinking of transitioning in your career). 
  • A social media account or YouTube channel with commentary on a particular aspect of your profession. Content could relate to recent updates, new software or hardware, trending news or your own projects. Short video clips are a quick way to demonstrate your knowledge and passion (you can be behind the camera or use an AI voiceover if you’re not a natural presenter) 

If you do create a website, don’t forget to include case studies, testimonials and a downloadable copy of your CV.  

3. Audit your social media​ 

You should know this by now, but prospective employers may check your public social media accounts. 

Consider making them private, and ensure that any public content reflects you in a good light. If you do keep your profiles visible, follow industry leaders and share relevant insights to demonstrate your passion for your work. 

Make sure your digital profile stands out

Today’s jobseekers have a number of channels and avenues to use for promotion, while AI tools make it easier than ever to create your digital profile. To stand out among other applicants, it’s time to make sure you’re showcasing your talents. 

Once you’ve done this and written your CV, it’s time to move onto sending your job application. Click here for guidance on preparing for references.

Alternatively, go back to our full series on writing the perfect CV.

In our ‘Path to the C-Suite’ series, we explore how professionals in different parts of the business can take the next step in their career. Whether you’re in IT, HR, or another function, you’ll find expert guidance on moving toward a seat in the C-Suite. 

In our first blog, we’re taking finance professionals on the journey to becoming Chief Financial Officer (CFO). No longer confined to financial stewardship, today’s CFO is a strategic partner to the CEO, a driver of transformation and a leader in data, technology, and sustainability. 

This blog explores the different pathways to CFO, the skills required, and how emerging technologies like AI are reshaping the finance function. With insights from seasoned finance leaders at Hays, you’ll discover more on how to position yourself for success. 

What does the CFO do? 

You’re probably already familiar with the basic responsibilities of the CFO role. However, beyond managing budgets and compliance, the job description has evolved to keep pace with modern trends. CFOs now increasingly lead on Environmental and Social Governance (ESG) reporting, digital transformation and cross-functional collaboration. 

“Previously the finance function was seen as a gatekeeper, controlling all financial activity. Nowadays, the business is leaning on the finance function as a partner – in helping to analyse the challenge, driving business growth and ensuring the business is profitable.”, notes Echo Wang, Senior Director for A&F at Hays China. 

This evolution of the role gives the CFO greater influence within the organisation. With access to data that impacts all aspects of the business, today’s CFO is a trusted voice in making decisions beyond simply guarding the purse strings. As well as a strong working relationship with your CEO, you’ll also work closely with other leaders to guide their operations. This requires a solid understanding of how everything works – and whether it’s a success or not.  

What are the paths to becoming a CFO? 

The key to successfully landing your first CFO role is gaining experience across the three core finance pillars. If you haven’t plied your trade in each of these, your CV will look less impressive when compared to other candidates’. 

James Hilton, Hays CFO, reflects on his own career: “I’ve been a Financial Controller and worked in financial accounting. You don’t need five years doing bank reconciliations, but exposure to these roles is vital to understand success as a finance leader.” 

Financial Control 

This function focuses on accuracy, compliance and safeguarding the financial integrity of the organisation. 

Popular junior roles include Accountant and Auditor, moving up to the Financial Controller position. Holding one or more of these will help to build your technical expertise and regulatory knowledge. 

Commercial Finance 

Using data to create forecasts, professionals in commercial finance offer advice and support to other functions within the organisation. 

Working in a commercial role will help you to learn about strategic decision-making. These roles, such as Commercial Finance Manager, offer greater exposure to the broader business, developing your collaboration skills across departments. 

Data Analytics and Business Intelligence 

With data’s importance only growing in the age of AI implementation, finance teams need experts who can extract tangible action points from the vast amounts of information available. 

Roles like Financial Analyst and Business Analyst focus on deriving insights from data to present to the broader business. 

Which skills does a CFO need to succeed?  

Human skills 

To rise to CFO, professionals must blend technical knowledge with leadership and communication skills. As Stuart Martin, Business Director for A&F at Hays ANZ, notes: “The difference between a good CFO and a great one isn’t technical skills – it’s the ability to engage with the broader business. Being able to relay the financial results in a non-financial way is really important.” 

Hilton adds: ““The biggest transition any finance professional will make is learning to tell a story with the numbers. When you can do that, you become a true partner to the business.” 

As such, important human skills (or soft skills) for a finance leader include: 

  • Communication 
  • Storytelling 
  • Attention to detail 
  • Critical thinking abilities 
  • Problem-solving abilities 

Marc Burrage, Managing Director for Hays Asia, has previously shared his tips on developing your communication skills. 

Technical skills 

The technical skills required for success will vary, depending on which of the three finance pillars you’re working in: 

  • Financial Control: a proficient understanding of accounting principles, reporting, compliance and internal controls 
  • Commercial Finance: knowledge of business models and operations 
  • Data Analytics: fluency in SQL, Python and tools such as Power BI, enabling you to manage data sets. 

While a CFO might not need such hands-on expertise in databases, they will need a willingness to upskill in new technologies.

Trends and technology in finance 

AI and automation 

As with many parts of the business, AI and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) are revolutionising finance, from managing routine, time-consuming tasks to generating strategic insights. 

Hilton explains: “Technology is enabling people to think more, not just do more. AI and RPA enhance accuracy, efficiency and decision-making.” 

Karen Young, UK&I Finance Director at Hays, elaborates: “While AI leverages cognitive capabilities to provide data analysis and make informed decisions, RPA excels in automating repetitive, rule-based tasks. When used together, they’re transforming finance by enhancing accuracy, efficiency and strategic decision-making.” 

As a result, professionals will be expected to use and experiment with these tools, in line with their employer’s governance and guardrails. It’s an opportunity to be at the forefront of innovation, rather than catching up to new ways of working. James Musgrave, Finance Director at Hays UK&I, advises: “Be a change agitator. If you’re not searching for what’s next, you’ll get left behind.” 

Sustainability 

ESG reporting is increasing in importance for finance teams, from the organisation itself to Scope 3 emissions in the supply chain. Senior members of finance teams, including the CFO, will become responsible for overseeing climate reporting, while Carbon Accountants and other emerging roles will soon help organisations to track their environmental impact more efficiently. 

Elio Recchia, VP for A&F at Hays USA, predicts: “With roles dedicated to sustainable finance, industry professionals need expertise. There’ll be a focus on more ethical investing and where that money is going.” 

Next steps 

Here are actionable steps to accelerate your journey to CFO: 

  • Broaden your experience: Rotate through financial control, commercial finance and analytics roles. 
  • Upskill in tech: Learn AI, RPA and data visualisation tools. Stay current with emerging technologies. 
  • Develop human skills: Focus on storytelling and communication, stakeholder engagement and change management. 
  • Seek mentorship: Have open conversations with your manager about career goals and development plans. 
  • Think globally: Consider international roles to gain broader exposure and accelerate progression. 

There’s no one path to CFO. However, every journey shares common traits: it demands adaptability, strategic thinking and a proactive mindset. By embracing technology, honing your human skills and gaining diverse experience, you can position yourself as a future finance leader.