Your CV is your first impression and in today’s fast-moving job market, it needs to count. With recruiters and hiring managers spending just seconds scanning applications, even small mistakes can cost you an interview.
At NMS Recruit, we review hundreds of CVs every week for roles across Sales, IT, Finance, and Commercial sectors. We’ve seen what works… and what definitely doesn’t.
If you’re applying for a new job or thinking about updating your CV, here are some of the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
1. Using One CV for Every Job
This is a big one. Sending the same CV to every employer might save you time, but it won’t get you noticed.
Why it's a problem:
Generic CVs don’t speak to the specific needs of a role. If your skills and experience aren’t clearly aligned with what the employer is asking for, your CV could be dismissed quickly.
How to fix it:
Tailor your CV for each application. Use the job description as your guide, mirror key phrases, highlight the most relevant experience, and make it easy for the hiring manager to see you’re a great match.
2. Too Much (or Too Little) Information
Your CV shouldn’t be a full autobiography, but it also shouldn’t be so vague that it leaves the reader guessing.
Why it's a problem:
CVs that are 4+ pages long can overwhelm hiring managers. On the other hand, a one-pager that lacks detail can undersell your achievements.
How to fix it:
Aim for 2-3 pages. Be clear and concise, focusing on your most recent and relevant roles. Use bullet points to keep information digestible, and don’t forget to include tangible achievements, not just responsibilities.
3. Poor Formatting and Presentation
You might have great experience but if your CV is hard to read, it may not even be seen.
Why it's a problem:
Messy layouts, inconsistent fonts, or lack of clear headings can make a CV feel chaotic. Worse still, if it’s not ATS (Applicant Tracking System) friendly, it might not even make it past automated filters.
How to fix it:
Stick to a clean, simple format. Use clear section headings (e.g., Work Experience, Skills, Education) and keep the design professional. Avoid graphics, tables, and text boxes.
4. Spelling and Grammar Errors
It sounds obvious but you’d be surprised how often we see it...
Why it's a problem:
Mistakes in spelling or grammar can suggest a lack of attention to detail and that can raise red flags for employers, especially for roles that require communication or documentation.
How to fix it:
Always proofread. Better still, ask someone else to check it for you. Reading your CV out loud can also help you spot clunky phrasing or awkward sentences.
5. No Personal Profile or Summary
Jumping straight into your job history is a missed opportunity.
Why it's a problem:
Without a brief introduction, employers don’t get a quick sense of who you are or what you’re looking for, especially if your background is diverse.
How to fix it:
Start with a short personal profile (3–4 lines) at the top of your CV. Mention your current position, years of experience, areas of expertise, and what kind of opportunity you’re seeking.
Example:
“Experienced Sales Manager with 8+ years in the food & beverage sector, specialising in team leadership, territory growth, and key account management. Now looking for a new challenge within a dynamic FMCG organisation.”
6. Listing Duties Instead of Achievements
Recruiters already know what a Sales Executive or IT Support Analyst does. What they want to know is how well you did it.
Why it's a problem:
A CV full of generic job descriptions won’t help you stand out. Employers want to see impact and results.
How to fix it:
Focus on accomplishments. Use numbers wherever possible: targets hit, revenue generated, projects delivered, customer satisfaction improvements, etc.
Example:
Instead of “Responsible for managing key accounts,” say “Grew key account portfolio by 35% year-on-year and negotiated contracts worth £500K+.”
7. Missing Keywords
Especially for roles in IT, Telecoms, or Finance, missing keywords can stop your CV from making it through applicant tracking software.
Why it's a problem:
Many companies use software to scan for relevant terms from the job description. If those terms aren’t in your CV, you may be filtered out before a human even sees your application.
How to fix it:
Read the job ad carefully and make sure you’ve naturally included key skills, technologies, or qualifications mentioned. This boosts your chances of being shortlisted.
Final Thoughts
Your CV is your marketing tool. It's not about listing everything you've ever done, it's about showcasing the most relevant, impressive, and tailored information to help you land the interview.
By avoiding these common pitfalls and presenting yourself in the best light, you’ll give yourself a genuine advantage in today’s competitive job market.
Need help perfecting your CV? Our expert recruiters at NMS are here to help you put your best foot forward. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to take the next step in your career, we’re only a message away.
