Your CV is your first impression. Even with great experience, simple mistakes can prevent you from landing an interview. As career coaches, we see the same errors repeatedly. Here are the top 5 common CV mistakes and how to fix them:

1. Typos and Grammatical Errors: To ensure your CV is polished and error-free, consider having it reviewed.

   • Why it matters: It suggests carelessness and lack of attention to detail.
   • The Fix: Proofread meticulously! Read it backward, use spell-check and grammar tools (like Grammarly), and ask a friend or mentor to review it with fresh eyes.

2. Generic, Non-Tailored Content:

   • Why it matters: Employers want to see you're specifically interested in their role and company, not just sending out mass applications. A generic CV doesn't highlight relevant skills.
   • The Fix: Customize your CV for each job application. Analyze the job description, identify keywords, and adjust your summary, skills, and experience bullet points to match the requirements. Highlight achievements most relevant to that specific role.

3. Focusing on Duties, Not Achievements: Learn how to quantify your achievements to make your CV more impactful.

   • Why it matters: Listing only responsibilities ("Responsible for X, Y, Z") tells employers what you did, but not how well you did it or what impact you had.
   • The Fix: Reframe your bullet points using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Focus on quantifiable achievements whenever possible. Use strong action verbs to describe your accomplishments (e.g., "Managed," "Developed," "Increased," "Reduced," "Led").

4. Poor Formatting and Readability:

   • Why it matters: A cluttered, inconsistent, or hard-to-read CV frustrates recruiters and can be problematic for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Get insights on mastering ATS optimization.
   • The Fix: Use a clean, professional template with clear headings and consistent formatting. For a deep dive into structures like chronological or functional, see our guide on CV formatting. Ensure ample white space, use standard fonts, and avoid graphics or tables that might confuse an ATS.

5. Vague or Missing Summary/Profile:

   • Why it matters: The summary is prime real estate at the top of your CV. A weak or missing summary fails to immediately capture the reader's attention and convey your key value proposition.
   • The Fix: Write a concise (3-4 lines) and compelling professional summary or profile. Our guide on crafting the perfect professional summary can show you how. Tailor it to the target role, highlighting your key experience, skills, and career goals. Include 1-2 major (quantifiable, if possible) achievements relevant to the job.

Avoiding these common pitfalls will significantly improve the quality and effectiveness of your CV. Before you click apply, run your document through our Ultimate CV Checklist to catch any final issues.