At The Talent Experts Consulting, one of the most common questions we get from candidates is whether short-term roles belong on a CV. If you’ve only been somewhere for two or three months, it can feel tempting to leave it off. In most cases, though, including it is the better choice.
Being open about your work history matters. When a role is left out, it can create gaps that hiring managers immediately notice. Those gaps often lead to more questions than the role itself would have.
Short-term roles also add more value than people realise. Even in a few months, you are exposed to new environments, systems, and ways of working. This shows that you can step into a role, contribute, and learn quickly, which is something employers look for.
Your career is made up of every step along the way, not just the long-term positions. Including shorter roles helps give a clearer picture of your journey and shows that you have remained active and engaged in your field.
There is also the networking aspect to consider. The people you meet during any role can become valuable contacts later on. Keeping that experience visible on your CV helps maintain those connections.
If the role is relevant to where you want to go next, it becomes even more important to include. It reinforces your interest in a specific industry or function and shows that you already have hands-on exposure.
In some cases, short-term roles end due to circumstances outside of your control, such as restructuring or contract changes. Including them, along with a brief explanation if needed, reflects professionalism and resilience.
Ultimately, a CV should tell a complete and honest story. Short-term roles are part of that story, and when positioned correctly, they can strengthen your overall profile rather than weaken it.
Manager, Contracting Services
