5 common CV mistakes

I’ve seen a lot of CVs, and sometimes wonder whether candidates read about CV writing techniques at all. In my opinion, a resume is similar to a meeting the first time. When you meet someone new, you create a first impression. You do not need to say a word! It is the same with your resume when you apply for a job. I met many fabulous CVs, and terrible ones too, then I started to look for similarities. Here are the top CV mistakes to avoid — according to my observation:

Crowded: thinking about wrong examples, this is the first that comes to my mind. I assume you would like to show me everything you have, compressing it to 1–2 pages. In the end, I see a resume full of data but nothing eye-catching. Remember, there is a famous rule: a recruiter typically spends around 6 seconds with a resume (yet I was always on a different opinion). Some recruiters do read your resume thoroughly, therefore a crowded CV is the last thing you want. On the contrary, if you write a CV with eye-catching keywords along with short but meaningful sentences, that is enough in most cases. I recommend adding relevant keywords, appropriate wording, and a transparent structure.

Long: a lengthy CV is everything but not interesting (except in some cases). As in the previous point, I assume you want to show me every little proof that you are the best for the role. And this is great, but don’t think hiring managers have time to read it through. The ugly truth is, when I forward such 4–5 pages to a hiring manager, they are mostly not into you. Scanning and adding all your certificates to it just makes it worse. Keep your documents for the onboarding.

Europass (or Word): I know there are some countries where a Europass CV is preferred, but let’s face it: these resumes are old-fashioned (not to mention the unnecessary pages). Instead of a Europass template, try something else. There are tons of websites offering finely designed templates, and new layouts. Use them or experiment with different CV designs and compositions. You will see, sooner or later, you will find the one. And please save it in PDF.

Quality: the overall look and quality matter! I saw many CVs with poor quality: lines are not aligned, the photo is not fitting to the composition, fonts are different, etc. Most hiring managers are choosy, and recruiters are also demanding when shortlisting candidates. Everyone is looking for the best candidate, someone who can add value, who is — probably — attentive. An unpretentious CV can’t sell you as a meticulous person who is attentive to details (obviously).

Doer vs. Achiever: this is something, I learned by being a recruiter and did not even think about it before. Maybe 90% of the CVs I screened were a “doer” CV. It means that most applicants only write about daily tasks but nothing about their participation in projects, or their greatest achievements. In contrast, the nature of an “achiever” CV is more likely to show your achievements, values added to a company, projects you steered, and initiatives that later proved to be great. That is way more engaging and makes us think that we found someone exceptional, and that is the point, isn’t it?

I would not let you go without sharing some ideas to help you stand out:

QR codes: add a QR code leading to your LinkedIn profile.

Neat header: adding all contact information within.

Organised skill charts: thank God, I see more and more CVs with a graphic design about your skills — make sure you add relevant skills.

Have something in mind? Would you add more tips? Join me with a comment. If you would like to read more articles like this, follow me on Medium or here on LinkedIn.