Your CV is often the first impression a potential employer has of you. A well-structured, error-free CV can open doors, while a poorly crafted one could lead to missed opportunities. Many job seekers in the UK unknowingly make common CV mistakes that hurt their chances.
In this article, we’ll highlight the top CV mistakes that could cost you the job—and, more importantly, how to fix them.
1. Spelling and Grammar Errors
A single typo can make you look careless. Employers expect attention to detail, and spelling mistakes on a CV can create a negative impression.
How to fix it:
- Proofread your CV multiple times.
- Use tools like Grammarly or Microsoft Word’s spell-check.
- Ask a friend or mentor to review your CV before submitting it.
2. Using a Generic CV for Every Job
Many job seekers send the same CV for different roles, but recruiters can spot a generic CV instantly. Tailoring your CV increases your chances of getting noticed.
How to fix it:
- Customise your CV for each application by highlighting relevant skills and experience.
- Use keywords from the job description to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
- Adjust your personal statement to match the role.
3. Listing Responsibilities Instead of Achievements
Employers don’t just want to see what you did—they want to see what you accomplished. Listing job duties without measurable results makes your CV less impactful.
How to fix it:
- Use quantifiable achievements (e.g., “Increased sales by 25% in six months”).
- Highlight how you added value to previous employers.
- Start bullet points with action verbs like “led,” “developed,” or “implemented.”
4. Poor Formatting and Layout
A cluttered or visually unappealing CV can make it difficult for recruiters to find key information. If your CV is hard to read, it may be discarded.
How to fix it:
- Use a clean, professional layout with clear headings.
- Stick to a simple, easy-to-read font (Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman).
- Keep it to 1-2 pages, ensuring key details are visible.
5. Including Irrelevant Information
Some candidates include details that don’t add value to their application, such as outdated jobs, excessive personal information, or unrelated hobbies.
How to fix it:
- Focus on experience and skills relevant to the role.
- Remove unnecessary details like your full address (city and postcode are enough).
- Only include hobbies if they showcase transferable skills (e.g., “Team captain of a local football team” demonstrates leadership).
6. Not Showcasing Transferable Skills
If you’re switching industries or roles, failing to highlight transferable skills can make it harder to land interviews.
How to fix it:
- Emphasise soft skills such as problem-solving, communication, and leadership.
- Use real-life examples to demonstrate adaptability.
- Align your skills with what the employer is looking for.
7. Not Including a Strong Personal Statement
A weak or missing personal statement can make your CV feel incomplete. This section is your chance to summarise who you are and what you offer.
How to fix it:
- Write a concise, engaging personal statement at the top of your CV.
- Focus on your strengths, experience, and career goals.
- Example: “Results-driven marketing specialist with five years of experience increasing brand engagement. Passionate about digital strategies and looking to bring innovative solutions to [Company Name].”
8. Ignoring Keywords for ATS
Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter CVs. If your CV doesn’t contain the right keywords, it may never reach a human recruiter.
How to fix it:
- Identify key skills and terms from the job description.
- Naturally incorporate those keywords into your CV.
- Avoid overloading with keywords—balance is key.
9. Not Adding a LinkedIn Profile
A LinkedIn profile can give recruiters more insight into your experience, recommendations, and connections. Not including it means missing an opportunity to enhance your professional image.
How to fix it:
- Add your LinkedIn profile link near your contact details.
- Ensure your LinkedIn profile is updated and matches your CV.
- Engage on LinkedIn by sharing relevant content or networking with industry professionals.
10. Forgetting to Include Contact Details
You’d be surprised how many job seekers forget to provide correct contact details or include outdated information.
How to fix it:
- Double-check your phone number and email address.
- Use a professional email (e.g., firstname.lastname@email.com).
- Avoid including your full address—just city and postcode will suffice.
Conclusion
Your CV is your ticket to job opportunities, so it needs to be polished and effective. By avoiding these common mistakes and applying the suggested fixes, you’ll improve your chances of securing interviews and landing your ideal job.
A well-crafted CV not only showcases your skills but also demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail. Take the time to refine yours, and you’ll be one step closer to career success.