Is Your CV Holding You Back? Avoid These Common Mistakes

Have you ever wondered why your CV isn't getting the attention it deserves? You’ve spent hours polishing it, only to receive silence from recruiters. The truth is, in a job market packed with candidates, even small mistakes can keep your CV from making the cut. Let’s break down some of the most common pitfalls—and how you can turn your CV into a job-winning document.

One major issue is focusing too much on tasks rather than achievements. Simply listing your responsibilities under each role won’t help you stand out. Employers want to see the value you brought to your previous positions. Did you streamline operations, exceed sales targets, or implement a new process? For example, instead of saying, "Managed the sales team," you could say, "Led a sales team that increased revenue by 25% over 12 months." Always look for ways to quantify your impact—numbers create a powerful narrative and make your achievements more concrete.

Another common misstep is using a one-size-fits-all CV. You’ve probably heard this before, but many people still send the same CV to every job they apply for. Recruiters can tell. Tailoring your CV doesn’t mean rewriting it from scratch, but it does mean customising certain sections. Start by scanning the job description—what skills and experience are they prioritising? Mirror their language and highlight the most relevant aspects of your experience. If the role emphasises leadership, for instance, ensure that your leadership experience is front and centre. Tailoring shows effort and demonstrates that you’re truly interested in that specific role.

Many candidates also make the mistake of including too much irrelevant information. We get it—you’re proud of all the roles you’ve held. But remember, your CV isn’t an autobiography. Employers don’t need to know about your summer job from 15 years ago (unless it’s directly relevant). Focus on your most recent and relevant experience, and aim to keep your CV concise—preferably two pages. For example, if you’re applying for a marketing role, they don’t need to know about your time as a retail assistant unless you can draw a clear connection to transferable skills like customer engagement or sales strategy.

Formatting issues are another dealbreaker. First impressions count, and a CV that’s cluttered, hard to read, or uses outdated fonts can quickly land in the ‘no’ pile. Recruiters typically scan CVs in seconds, so readability is crucial. Use clear section headings, bullet points, and plenty of white space to make it easy on the eyes. A clean, modern font (like Arial or Calibri) ensures your CV looks professional. If a recruiter has to hunt for information, they’re likely to move on to the next applicant.

Then there’s the issue of typos and inconsistencies—simple errors that can undermine all your hard work. It’s one thing to craft a compelling CV, but if it’s riddled with mistakes, it suggests a lack of attention to detail. Typos, inconsistent formatting, or incorrect dates can be enough for a hiring manager to question your professionalism. Take the time to proofread thoroughly, and ask a trusted friend or professional to review it as well. A fresh pair of eyes often catch errors you might miss after staring at the document for too long.

Finally, let’s not forget the importance of showing your personality and motivation. While a CV is a professional document, that doesn’t mean it has to be lifeless. Particularly in creative or people-focused roles, recruiters want to see a bit of who you are. Including a well-crafted personal statement at the top of your CV can give them a sense of your passion and drive. Keep it professional, but don’t be afraid to show enthusiasm for the role or industry.

At the end of the day, your CV is your personal marketing document—it’s what convinces a recruiter to pick up the phone and call you. If you're unsure whether your CV is making the impact it should, I’m here to help. Consider booking a professional review to boost your chances of standing out in a crowded market.