This week’s Top ten mistakes to avoid when CV Writing
1. Poor formatting/Layout
The first impression is crucial recruiters need to see information quickly so displaying it in a clear layout will capture the reader and encourage them to read the content.
2. Unusual fonts and point size
It may be tempting to use an unusual font to grab attention; however the only attention it will get is negative! Times New Roman and Arial are standard, a more unusual but accepted alternative is Verdana.
3. Photos
Recruiters in the UK do not expect to see photos on a CV so are usually put off when there is one, regardless of whether it is acceptable across the EU.
4. No personal Profile included
The recruiter needs to know who you are, what experience you have and what you are looking for in a short paragraph. The profile is there to entice the recruiter to read the rest of the document and is a key part of the CV.
5. Missing contact details
As a recruiter there is nothing more frustrating than finding a great candidate then realising that there are no contact details or that there is an error in the phone number provided! Make sure the reader can contact you.
6. Lengthy CV’s
CV’s that continue for pages are likely to get overlooked, firstly because recruiters will have to search for the information, secondly an agency will be reluctant to want to spend the time editing the CV to present to the client! Aim for 2 pages!
7. Irrelevant Personal information
Avoid personal information that could create immediate prejudices against you e.g. your age, gender or marital status. This could also be applied when considering which hobbies/interests to include.
8. Exhaustive lists of Duties
Duties are a really a small part of what is contained in your CV; recruiters want to be informed of what you achieved during your work history.
9. Over emphasising experience
It may be appealing to build your experience up in order to gain a better position; however you leave yourself wide open if you get to interview stage and can’t demonstrate that you have the skills and capabilities for the job.
10. Irrelevant Academic details
It is not necessary to provide details of all academic achievements, e.g. If an applicant has a Msc there would be little need to list all GCSE grades as this information is simply not relevant.
Article Submitted by Claire Thorogood who is a expert CV Writer and Career Guru for The CV Writing Centre