A hiring manager typically spends just 10 seconds reviewing your CV to decide if you’re a good fit for the role.
CV writing is trickier than it seems; it’s the first thing a potential employer will see, and first impressions are hard to repair, so it’s crucial to get it right.
Read on if you want to make those initial 10 seconds count by avoiding some common CV mistakes:
Information overload
Many people overload their CVs with excessive information out of fear of leaving something out. However, too much detail can backfire—it buries your most relevant skills and leaves large blocks of text that hinder readability.
Highlighting duties instead of accomplishments
Many people fall into the trap of listing duties when describing their experience in previous roles. However, employers are more interested in what you’ve achieved through those responsibilities, rather than just what you were tasked with.
Highlighting accomplishments presents a more dynamic and positive image than merely listing duties. Here’s an example:
Change: “Updated departmental files.”
To: “Streamlined 10 years’ worth of disorganised files, making them easily accessible for colleagues and ensuring compliance with quality standards within the department.”
Clichés
If any of the following phrases feature on your CV, consider deleting, editing or rephrasing them. As they are commonly used, they can dilute the impact of your message.
“Strong communication skills”
“Track record of success”
“Ability to work well both individually and within a team”
“Keen attention to detail”
Elaborate fonts
There’s a fine line between using a unique font to grab attention and making the text hard to read. Stick to simple, clear fonts like Arial or Calibri, and avoid Comic Sans – not because it’s hard to read but because it looks more playful than professional.
Hitting ‘send’ too soon
Proofread your CV multiple times before you send it. Ensure your contact details are up to date, including a current email address that you check regularly.
Proper formatting, along with correct grammar and spelling are a must. If it looks like you have rushed to pull your CV or covering letter together, the employer may question your commitment to securing an interview. If you’re not fully confident in your own judgment, consider asking someone else to review your CV. There are also online tools available to assist you if needed.
