Common Errors you should avoid in your CV

Common Errors you should avoid in your CV

Are you struggling to get interviews after applying to a large number of jobs? Your CV might be responsible for that. Your CV is important because it's the first thing employers see. 

You should include the following sections in your CV, each of them in reverse chronological order.

• your work experience
• your non-work experience, including involvement in professional organisations and the community
• your education, certifications and licences
• any other skills and interests related to the job

Common errors you should avoid in your CV:

1. Spelling, Formatting and Grammar Mistakes: These are the three biggest CV errors usually made in CVs. The reader may easily discard your application if they are unable to make sense/navigate through your CV. This could turn a perfect, skilled candidate into a rejection.  Clutter can also be a reason for turning off hiring managers. Your CV must be easy to read, with no grammatical errors, no excessively large white spaces, and ideally contain no spelling mistakes. Try using bullet points to avoid poor formatting.

2. Missing Contact Information: Make sure your contact information is up-to-date, otherwise this can be detrimental to your job search. Double-check that your phone number and email address are prominently displayed at the top of your document. Avoid using an email address that may appear provocative, profane or offensive. Potential employers may prefer to see a professional email address instead.

3. Lack of Tailoring: Tailoring your experience shows that you have performed research and you know how to sell yourself. Highlight only the parts of your career and experience that match the job description and are most relevant to the job you're applying for. It is advisable that you use persuasive language, action words, bold text and achievement lists to emphasise your qualifications. Tailor your CV to each job that you apply for.

4. Gaps in Work History: If you have gaps in your CV, it is best to explain them and be clear and genuine about what has happened, without going into unnecessary details.

5. Exaggerating or Lying: Whilst embellishing your qualifications and experience might be very tempting, it is important to be sure of who you are and what you have to offer as employers can easily fact-check your claims.

6. Ignoring Keywords: Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan CVs for specific keywords related to the job opening. Make sure you include relevant keywords to increase the chances of passing the ATS screening process.

7. Avoid Using ChatGPT: There are a good few softwares out there that can track whether a text has been written or not with AI. This is definitely a don’t do as your application might be rejected instantly.

8. Don’t make it too long: Generally, a good CV runs between 1–2 pages. You should be focusing on the quality of the CV and not the quantity of the pages written. If everything cannot fit onto 2 pages, don’t be scared to go onto a 3rd page.

9. Not Quantifying Achievements: It is recommended that you focus on your duties in a role rather than your achievements. Whenever possible, quantify your achievements with numbers and statistics to demonstrate the impact you've had in previous roles.

10. Not including hobbies and interests: While it’s important not to include too many hobbies and interests, it’s good to show your personal side and showcase some valuable transferrable skills.

Avoiding these CV mistakes can improve your chances of getting noticed by hiring managers and getting your dream job. Also, remember that you can clarify any gaps in your CV or other important matters in your cover letter. If you need advice when writing your CV, do not hesitate to contact us.