4 CV Mistakes That Could Cost You the Job

As you can probably guess, with such an extensive combined experience that our office has in the industry, we genuinely understand what employers do and do not want to see on your CV.

Creating a CV that captures attention is one of the most important steps in any job search. Yet, despite the abundance of free resources online, many applicants still make mistakes that can quickly harm their chances. A poorly presented CV can leave a lasting negative impression before you even get to the interview stage.

This guide highlights some of the most frequent pitfalls and how to avoid them so that your application stands out for the right reasons.

Slang

Using slang, casual phrases, or regional colloquialisms can make your CV appear unprofessional. Recruiters and hiring managers look for clear, well-structured writing that reflects a professional attitude. Keep your tone polished and consistent, and focus on language that is suitable for the industry you are applying to.

Typos and Bad Grammar

It may sound silly, but errors in spelling or grammar can genuinely cost you an interview. Many employers view mistakes as a sign of carelessness, even if your skills are otherwise strong. It really doesn't take much time to proofread carefully. But consider using a trusted spelling and grammar tool.

Also, one final point on this, reading your CV aloud can also help you spot awkward phrasing or overlooked mistakes. The goal is to ensure every section reads smoothly and reflects attention to detail.

Friends and Family as References

References carry weight during the hiring process, so they need to be credible. Listing a friend or family member is unlikely to strengthen your application, as employers prefer to hear from people who have directly worked with you in a professional setting.

The Importance of Tailoring Your CV

One of the most overlooked aspects of CV writing is tailoring it for each application. I know it's a lot more effort, but sending out the same generic CV to multiple employers often leads to missed opportunities.

It takes a little more time, but researching the company and role before applying, then adjusting your experience, skills, and achievements, can help you highlight how you fit into their company a lot more easily.

Getting Your CV in Front of the Right People

If you are struggling to ensure your CV reaches decision-makers, we can help.

It may sound silly to say, but this is our bread and butter; we connect candidates across the UK each and every day with roles that suit their skills, experience, and career goals. Unlike in the massive agencies, our recruitment specialists work closely with you to match your strengths with the right employers, giving you the best chance of securing an interview.

Register with Rhino Recruitment today to discover opportunities in your area.

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