Top Mistakes People Make on Their CV (and How to Avoid Them)

Your CV is often your first impression. It tells employers who you are before you even get a chance to speak. However many people lose out on job opportunities because of these common mistakes. The good news is that once you know what they are, they are simple to avoid.

If you are about to create a CV or looking to improve yours, here are the top mistakes to watch out for and how to get them right.

Your CV is too long or too short

If your CV is five pages long, most of it will not get read. On the other hand, one paragraph will not give enough detail. A good CV should be one to two pages long, depending on your experience. Focus on your recent roles and keep it clear.

Spelling and grammar errors

This is one of the most common mistakes. A small typo can give the wrong impression and make you seem careless. Always double-check your CV. Use a spellchecker and if possible, ask a friend or family member to read it over too.

Using vague or generic phrases

Many people use words like “hard worker” or “team player” but do not give examples. Employers want to see proof of your skills, not just claims. Instead of saying “great communicator”, say “led weekly team meetings” or “presented monthly reports to senior staff”.

Not tailoring your CV for the job

If you are applying for different roles, you should adjust your CV slightly each time. Use keywords from the job advert and match your skills to what the company is asking for. A generic CV will not stand out.

Forgetting to add contact details

This might sound obvious but it happens more often than you think. Always include your phone number and a professional email address. Check that all details are correct and easy to find at the top of your CV.

Using an unprofessional email address

If your email is something like “partyguy88@email.com”, it is time to change it. Keep it simple. A version of your name works best, like john.smith@email.com.

Wrong file format

Some people send CVs in Word format that do not open properly or change layout. Always save your CV as a PDF before sending it. It keeps everything in place and looks more professional.

Leaving big time gaps unexplained

If you took time off work, just explain it briefly. Whether it was for study, travel, or family reasons, it is better to say something than leave blank spaces.

Final thoughts

Learning how to make a CV that is clear and mistake-free will give you a better chance at landing the job you want. Use simple language, update it regularly, and always tailor it to each role you apply for.

If you are unsure where to begin, try using a free CV tool like MakeACV.ai. It makes creating a CV quick and easy with helpful tips built in. Whether it is your first CV or your fifth, it is never too late to get it right.