If you’ve written research papers, articles, or books, adding them to your CV can help you stand out. This is especially helpful if you’re applying for remote jobs in fields like writing, research, teaching, or tech. Publications show that you can create valuable content and that others respect your work. A 2023 LinkedIn report found that candidates with published work get 17% more profile views from recruiters. Another report by CareerBuilder showed that 49% of hiring managers view published work as proof of expertise. If you list your work the right way, it can help build a strong, professional image.
Where You Should List Publications on Your CV
Could you give your publications their own section on your CV? Call it “Publications” or “Published Work.” Put it after your education or work experience, depending on which one is more important for the role. If the job focuses on writing or research, move this section higher. Themba Sithole, a hiring manager at ResearchJobs SA, says, “Well-placed publications can give candidates an edge, especially in remote roles that require independent thinking and writing.” Grouping your publications helps employers quickly find what matters most.
What Kind of Work Should You Include
Only include work that has been published and is connected to the job you’re applying for. This can be journal articles, books, chapters in books, blog posts, reports, or papers from conferences. Leave out drafts or casual online posts unless the employer has asked for writing samples. Focus on work that shows your skill, knowledge, or authority. If you are applying for a content, research, or policy role, even a blog post on a respected site like Medium or Forbes can help you stand out. Showing thought leadership matters more than ever.
Use a Clear and Simple Format
Each piece of work you list should follow the same format. Could you start with your name in bold, then the year, the title of the job, and where it was published? You can also include a link if the work is available online, if you like. For example: Mokoena, T. (2022). Trends in African Renewable Energy. Energy Policy Journal. Make sure all entries follow this same pattern. If you have written many things, start with the most relevant ones. You only need to number them if the list is long and you’re applying for academic roles.
Keep It Neat and Organised
If you have a lot of publications, group them into types. You can have sections like “Journal Articles,” “Blog Posts,” or “Conference Papers.” This makes it easier for someone to scan your CV. If you list too many unrelated works, it can confuse or distract the reader. A 2024 report by CVInsights found that most recruiters spend only 7 seconds scanning a CV before deciding whether to keep reading. Neat, well-marked sections help you pass that first test and show that you respect the employer’s time.
Add Links to Make Access Easy
If your work is available online, could you include a working link so the employer can read it right away? This helps them check the quality of your work without needing to search. You can use links to platforms like Medium, ResearchGate, LinkedIn, or your website. Could you keep the links short and clean? For example: Available at: www.medium.com/@yourname/your-article-title. If a link is too long or broken, it looks unprofessional and may be ignored.
Tailor the List for Each Job You Apply For
You don’t need to include every piece of writing for every job. Pick the ones that match the job best. For example, if you are applying for a remote writing job, include blog posts or content pieces instead of academic research. A targeted list shows that you took the time to understand the employer’s needs. Career coach Ayanda Zulu says, “A focused CV shows clarity and confidence. You don’t need to tell your whole story — just the part that matters most for the job.”
Match the Style to the Job Type
If you’re applying for an academic or research job, use full citation styles like APA or Harvard. These roles expect detailed, formal formats. But if you’re applying for a business or tech role, keep it clean and straightforward. Use plain text with the title, year, and source. A hiring manager at a remote tech company once said, “We care about what the person wrote, not how well they follow citation rules. We want to see the ideas, fast.” Choose the format that makes your work shine without slowing down the reader.
Be Honest and Precise
Do not include work that hasn’t been accepted or published. Only list work that has your name as an author. If something is still under review, you can mention it in your cover letter or portfolio instead. In jobs that involve research or writing, honesty builds trust. If you list something that turns out to be false or exaggerated, it can damage your reputation. Always double-check that your list is accurate before you send your CV.
Let Your Work Prove Your Value
When done right, listing your publications can make your application stronger. It shows your skills and builds your credibility. Use a simple format, focus on the most relevant pieces, and make sure your list is neat and easy to read. Tailor it for each job, and always be honest with me. If you do this well, your work will speak for you. In competitive job markets, especially for remote roles, showing proof of your talent can be the difference that gets you hired.
