CV writing mistakes

from The CV Store

Did you know, around half of all CVs screened by recruiters, contain at least one spelling mistake? Your CV is your sales pitch and the one chance you have at persuading the recruiter into taking your application further.

Profile:

All too often, we see profiles with sentences such as, “I am hardworking, good in a team or on my own and have good communication skills.” This will not sell you and sounds like 90% of other applicants. Use this section of your CV to highlight your skills and related achievements – preferably matching them to competencies requested on a job description. This section should always be written in third person

Employment:

When compiling your employment history there is no need to provide the address of your employer - all you need is the company name, your job title and the date you started work and finished work with them. Then, you can talk about your duties and achievements in each position

Over-the-top formatting:

Never use any colours / fancy borders in a CV. Many people will be printing in black and white and this could lead to text not displaying properly

Hobbies:

The majority of people enjoy reading, listening to music, sport and socialising etc., so unless you have done something special and relevant to the position you’re applying for - leave it out! If you are including hobbies, keep them towards the bottom of your CV as it is one of the least important areas

Qualifications:

Lots of people make the common mistake of listing all their academic background (including grades) - even from 25 years ago! This is not necessary. For recent graduates or for someone with limited employment history it may be useful but for the majority of applicants, all that’s needed is information on your most recent achievement and a list of older ones

Too many pages:

Don’t bore the reader with pages of unnecessary information. There is no specific rule regarding the number of pages a CV should be, but as a general guide, a recent graduate will be looking at around 1 page whereas someone in employment should be looking at around 2 pages (3 pages for someone with a more detailed employment background / in a managerial position)

Jargon:

Many applicants believe that using industry-specific jargon is beneficial and that the person reading their CV will understand it. Unfortunately, CVs are often screened by people who will not understand these acronyms – thus reducing the chances of your application being pursued

For advice with regards to writing a CV, contact The CV Store – CV writing specialists. Their services are available seven days a week; contact them today for a free CV review to identify any areas of your CV that need improving!