Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a CV

Many companies provide plenty of advice on how to write a great CV, but how often do you come across tips on what not to do?

In this article, we’re tackling the common mistakes to avoid when crafting a successful CV. Your CV is often your first chance to make a strong impression on potential employers. Yet, many candidates miss out on opportunities because of easily avoidable mistakes. Let’s make sure you’re not one of them!

Many companies provide plenty of advice on how to write a great CV, but how often do you come across tips on what not to do?

Typos and Grammatical Errors
It might seem obvious, but typos and grammar mistakes are one of the most common reasons CVs get rejected. A small spelling error or awkward sentence can make you look unprofessional or careless, even if you’re the perfect candidate.

Tip: Always proofread! Better yet, have someone else check it too. Use spell check tools like Grammarly or read your CV out loud—it helps catch things you might miss otherwise.
Using an Unprofessional Email Address
Your email address is one of the first things an employer sees.

If it’s something like “partyqueen88” or “gamer4life,” it can make you seem unprofessional right from the start.

Tip: Keep it simple and professional by using your name or initials. If needed, create a new email address specifically for job applications.
Too Long or Too Short
Finding the right length for your CV can be tricky. If it’s too long, employers may skim over important details. If it’s too short, it might not tell your full story. Aim for a CV that’s no more than 2 pages long, depending on your experience.

Tip: Focus on what’s most relevant to the job you’re applying for and cut out any unnecessary details.
Focusing on Responsibilities Instead of Achievements
Many CVs focus too much on what someone was responsible for in their past roles instead of what they achieved. Employers want to know how you made a difference, not just what tasks you were assigned.

Tip: Instead of saying, “Responsible for managing a team,” say, “Led a team of 5 to exceed sales targets by 20%.”. Use numbers or specific outcomes whenever you can.
Not Tailoring Your CV to the Job
Sending the same CV to every job might feel efficient, but it won’t help you stand out. Employers can tell when a CV is generic, and they want to see how your skills match their specific needs.

Tip: Highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the role. This might take extra time, but it’s worth it!
Including Irrelevant Information
It’s tempting to include every job you’ve ever had or list all your hobbies, but employers aren’t interested in details that don’t relate to the job. So, stick to relevant experience. If you’re applying for a marketing role, your old barista job might not need much attention. And unless your hobbies directly relate to the role (like graphic design or volunteering), it’s best to leave them out.

Tip: Prioritise experience, skills, and achievements that are directly relevant to the role.
Overusing Buzzwords
Phrases like “team player” or “hard worker” are used so often that they’ve lost meaning. Employers want to see real evidence of your skills, not generic buzzwords. Show, don’t just tell. Instead of saying you’re a “great communicator,” describe how you handled difficult conversations or led successful meetings.

Tip: Specific examples always make a bigger impact.
Messy Layout and Formatting
A CV that’s hard to read or cluttered can be a big turn-off for employers. If your layout is confusing, they might not even bother reading it. Keep your CV clean and simple. Use bullet points for easy reading, clear headings, and consistent fonts.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the page, leave some white space to make it look professional and organised.
Leaving Employment Gaps Unexplained
If you’ve had breaks in your employment, don’t worry—it’s more common than you think. However, leaving gaps unexplained can raise questions for employers. Briefly explain any gaps in your CV.

Tip: Whether you took time off for travel, family reasons, or further education, it’s better to be upfront about it than leave it open to interpretation.
Not Including Keywords
Many companies use software (called Applicant Tracking Systems or ATS) to filter through CVs before they even reach a human. If your CV doesn’t include the right keywords, it might get filtered out. Read the job description carefully and make sure your CV includes relevant keywords.

Tip: If the role mentions “project management” or “data analysis,” make sure those exact phrases appear in your CV if they apply to your skills.

Your CV is your chance to make a powerful first impression, so avoiding these common mistakes can help you stand out in a competitive job market. Whether it’s double-checking for typos, keeping your experience relevant, or tailoring your CV to the job at hand, small changes can make a big difference in how employers view you.

By following these simple tips and being mindful of what to leave out, you’ll increase your chances of landing that interview. A well-polished, targeted CV can be the key to opening doors to new opportunities and taking the next step in your career.

Ready to make your next career move?

Explore the latest job opportunities at www.blackleadershipjobboard.com/jobs or get personalised advice from the Black Leadership Job Board team at info@blackleadershipjobboard.com.

Best of luck—let your CV be a true reflection of your skills and potential!