Chapter 24 | Common CV mistakes to avoid

Here are some of the most common issues that weaken otherwise capable candidates.

1. Writing before planning; leads to flat, reactive content.

2. Listing duties instead of showing value; makes the reader think, ‘So what?’

3. Being too vague; if the reader cannot tell how good you are, they will not assume the best.

4. Using generic language; this weakens trust and makes the CV feel interchangeable.

5. Hiding the strongest evidence; your best material should not be buried.

6. Trying to include everything; more content does not mean more credibility.

7. Using poor formatting; a diHicult document often does not get a second chance.

8. Writing for yourself instead of for the reader; a recruiter needs clear visual content, not your entire history.