5 Things to Avoid on Your CV

The standards demanded by each industry vary significantly. This can largely be seen in the style of each CV. However, whichever job you’re applying for, there are some key things to get right from the start.

Writing over two pages

Yes, your future employer will want to build a picture of you from your CV. The temptation is to include as much information as possible to impress. But, this doesn’t deliver the best CV. Keep it clear and concise and think about every word you are using. If it’s not relevant to the job you’re applying for, then don’t include it.

Re-using your CV

This could be either not updating a past CV or continually sending the same document to various intuitions. A scattergun strategy is unlikely to deliver your dream job. Tailoring your CV shows a hiring manager that you understand the organisation, have taken the time to understand what they are looking for and help you stand out from the crowd.

Spell check

What’s the quickest way to ensure a recruiter loses faith in an application? Spelling and grammar mistakes. If you are evenly matched with another applicant, but your CV is littered with basic errors it makes you look unprofessional, and could ultimately cost you the job. We’d recommend asking a close friend to read over the document before you send it to ensure it’s free from mistakes.

Generic language

If you feel the urge to state that you work very well within a team but also individually; the chances are, you don’t. Using words like ‘avid reader, team player and self-motivated’ just allow your application to fall to the bottom of the pile. If you work well with others, then perhaps write ‘effectively managed a team of X dynamic X’.

Forgetting industry-specific requirements

You’re one phone call away from the interview when the hiring manager starts searching for your contact details. Make sure your full contact details are up-to-date and included on your CV. Also, if there are additional requirements expected by your potential employer, be sure to include them on the first page at the top.

If you need help or advice on putting together your CV, please click here and phone a member of our team. (Link to contact form/contact page)

 

Thursday Aug 31, 2017