Here are some things you should avoid including on your CV (Curriculum Vitae):
This common CV mistake could be costing you a response from all your job applications!
- Personal Information: Avoid including personal information such as your age, marital status, religion, and nationality. These details are irrelevant to your qualifications and might lead to discrimination. Do include your right to work permissions i.e. EU Citizen or work visa required.
- Photos: Unless you’re specifically asked for a headshot, there is no reason to include a photo on your CV
- Irrelevant Work Experience: Including every single work experience you’ve ever had is not necessary. Instead, only list relevant experiences that highlight your skills and achievements. This will save valuable space on your CV and make it more concise.
- Hobbies and Interests: While it’s great to have hobbies and interests, they are not always relevant to your job application. Only include them if they are related to the position you are applying for, or if they demonstrate skills or qualities that are beneficial for the job.
- Negative Information: Avoid sharing negative information about previous employers or colleagues. This can give the impression that you are difficult to work with and can damage your reputation.
- Inconsistent Formatting: Keep the formatting of your CV consistent throughout, and avoid using different fonts, colors, shapes, and sizes. This can make your CV look unprofessional and difficult to read. Word is the best format for a CV which can be converted into a PDF.
- Unprofessional Email Address: Your email address should be professional and appropriate for the workplace. Avoid using a personal or inappropriate email address, such as partygurl91@example.com or hotstuff123@example.com.
- Lies or Exaggerations: Always be truthful on your CV. Lies or exaggerations can be easily discovered and can ruin your chances of getting the job. Be honest about your qualifications, work experience, and achievements.
- References: There is no need to add references or a line saying available on request. If you need to provide a reference, someone will ask for it.
Remember that your CV is a reflection of you and your professional abilities. Make sure to tailor it to the job you’re applying for and present yourself in the best possible light. Also, try keeping it to two pages!
