TJ - The Publication for Learning and Development

Top ten CV sins

By Debbie Carter (21-11-2006)
0 Comments Comments
Article Rating:

Poor Best

Email to a friend | Print Version

Learning and Development News - Top ten CV sins

Employers receive more CVs than ever before, but research reveals that the majority contain basic errors. Typically less than half a minute is spent reading a CV and experts say that it is crucial to stand out from the crowd.

Research undertaken by Marketing Professionals UK, specialists in marketing recruitment, reveals the top ten most common CV howlers. Top of the list is typos: it is proven that around 50 per cent of CVs contain spelling mistakes or grammatical errors. Next is work experience listed in the wrong order when the most recent position should be first. In particular, applicants often neglect to detail their current role, sometimes it is omitted altogether or is out of date. The third mistake concerns unexplained gaps in dates between jobs. Fourth is sloppy formatting: inappropriate fonts or mixing of styles and sizes, paragraphs or bullet points that do not align. Fifth is an inappropriate use of colours, photographs, logos or fancy paper as it is rare that these aid your application.

The sixth most common howler is listing irrelevant information such as holiday jobs or casual work that are not relevant to the position. Next is the mistake of sending through a CV that has clearly been constructed in application for a different role. Quite understandably, employers like to see a CV tailored to their vacancy. The eighth howler is a disorganised CV where it is hard to follow and information is scattered around the page. Ninth is the sin of making it too long: CVs should be kept to two to three pages and long paragraphs and sentences should be avoided. And the last CV sin is making it too basic as then there is not enough information to interest the employer. The rule is not hurry over the preparation of a CV as it will show. Take plenty of time and consider the best way to explain achievements and responsibilities in a clear and concise manner.

Jonny Cainer at Marketing Professionals UK comments: ‘You’d be amazed at the number of mistakes we find on CVs. It’s the first thing a potential employer sees and determines whether you should move to the next stage of the recruitment process. It’s vital that jobseekers get it right.

‘If a CV is badly constructed, it can seriously hinder career progression. People should be aware of the most common mistakes as this is the only document the employer has to judge you on.

‘Reputable recruitment agencies will often interview candidates and reformat CVs before presenting their details to a prospective employer. They will add their comments and include any information they deem relevant to support an application. This ensures candidates will be considered in the best possible light, increasing their chances of being selected for interview,’ he adds.

Back to top | Current TJ

 

Readers Comment

Comment on this story here >

Be the first to comment on this news story

 

 

Articles from this Issue