CV Mistakes

Common CV mistakes to Avoid

Writing an effective CV can significantly improve your chances of being selected for a job. Although there are not necessarily rules for how to write a CV, it is important to make sure you avoid making unnecessary mistakes. This article lists some common mistakes of CV writing that you will want to take into consideration as you begin to compose your CV. The actual structure and content of the CV may vary depending on the field of work; however, the tips below can be applied to a variety of lines of work.


Length

A typical CV is about two pages in length. Although composing a lengthy CV may seem like a way to get a competitive edge, many employers do not have time to read through page after page of information. Therefore, it is a good idea to include the most relevant information. Your CV should be catered specifically to the job you are applying for, so be sure to take your audience into consideration! One warning to keep in mind is that you will not want to have gaps in your dates when listing your employment experiences. Employers may question whether you were unemployed during these time periods and wonder why that was the case.


Word Choice

It is unsurprising that many job applicants describe themselves as “motivated” and “intelligent,” but these words mean very little if they are not supported by convincing evidence. Try to make yourself stand out by describing your experiences and accomplishments in a manner that shows you have these qualities. Additionally, it is important to avoid being excessively wordy. Strong CVs contain precise language, and your ability to effectively condense your experiences will help you come across as organized. Sometimes, writing concisely takes much more time and care than writing superfluously.


Design

The font and size of your CV should be consistent throughout the entire document. While slightly larger headings may help with organization, having more than two font sizes can be extremely distracting. Additionally, it is advisable to choose a font that is clear and easy to read. In relation, make sure you thoroughly check for grammar and spelling mistakes. This will require you to read and reread your CV several times to be sure you have not skipped over any errors.


Empty Content

When describing your work experiences, make sure you find a way to connect them specifically with the job you are applying for. In some circumstances, it may be necessary to list your responsibilities; however, be careful about listing the obvious when you could be describing the significance of these experiences. This will give your content much more depth than a simple explanation of the duties performed.


Taking these elements into consideration could help bring your current CV to the next level or serve as a preventative measure for those who are composing their first CV document. The CV is one of the most important elements of a job application, and you will not want to compromise your chances by making classic mistakes that could have been prevented. Visit Build-a-Career for further advice or to apply for jobs,