7 Most Common CV Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

The modern job market is increasingly competitive, and a CV is the first thing that determines whether a candidate progresses to the next stage of recruitment. Unfortunately, many people still make mistakes in creating this document, which can discourage recruiters. Below, we outline the most common CV mistakes and tips on how to avoid them to increase your chances of landing your dream job.

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1. Lack of Specifics in Work Experience Descriptions

One of the most frequent mistakes is providing overly general descriptions of work experience. Recruiters want to know exactly what you did in previous roles and what achievements you can highlight. When describing your responsibilities, aim to be as specific as possible and include concrete examples, such as numbers, percentages, or achieved goals. Show how your contributions made a difference to the company’s success.

Mistake: “Responsible for customer service.”
Correct: “Managed a portfolio of 50 clients, increasing customer satisfaction by 20% through effective communication and resolving issues within 24 hours.”

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2. A CV That Is Too Long or Too Short

An ideal CV should be neither too long nor too short. An overly detailed CV may deter a recruiter from reading it, while one that is too brief may not provide enough information. Aim for a CV that is 1–2 pages long, focusing on the most important details that best showcase your competencies.

Mistake: A CV that is four pages long.
Correct: A CV that is 1–2 pages, containing only the most relevant information.

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3. Failing to Tailor Your CV to the Job Posting

One of the biggest mistakes is sending the same CV for every job application. Recruiters pay attention to whether your experience and skills match the requirements of a specific job posting. Always tailor your CV to the job description, emphasizing the qualifications and experiences that align with the employer’s needs.

Mistake: Sending the same CV to various job postings.
Correct: Adapting your CV to meet the requirements of each job offer.

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4. Language and Spelling Errors

Nothing spoils a recruiter’s impression more than language errors. Before submitting your CV, carefully proofread it to ensure there are no typos or grammatical mistakes. Use professional language that reflects your attention to detail and diligence.

Mistake: “Managed a project that was contributing to the launch of a new service.”
Correct: “Managed a project that contributed to the successful launch of a new service.”

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5. Including Irrelevant Information

Your CV doesn’t need to include details that are unrelated to your professional experience. Age, marital status, number of children, or a photo (unless explicitly required) can create unnecessary distractions. Focus on what matters—your work experience, skills, education, and accomplishments.

Mistake: Including personal details that are not relevant.
Correct: Focusing on professional experience, skills, and achievements.

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6. Failing to Keep Your CV Updated

Some candidates send outdated CVs that lack the most recent information about their work experience, skills, or courses. Remember that your CV is a living document that should be regularly updated to reflect your latest accomplishments and qualifications.

Mistake: Submitting a CV that hasn’t been updated for years.
Correct: Regularly updating your CV to showcase your current experience and skills.

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7. Missing a Skills and Competencies Section

Recruiters often look for a list of key skills in CVs that align with the job requirements. Omitting this section can make your CV less attractive. Create a dedicated section for technical, interpersonal, and language skills.

Mistake: Not including a list of skills.
Correct: Adding a section for key skills, such as software proficiency, foreign languages, and soft skills.

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Conclusion

Avoiding these common CV mistakes can help you stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of being invited to the next stages of recruitment. Remember that your CV is your business card—make sure it’s tailored to the role, clear, professional, and free of errors. A well-prepared CV is the key to success in the hiring process.