By
Ivana Batt
March 28, 2023
10 Common CV Mistakes
These Small CV Errors Could Be Holding You Back
From formatting issues to vague language — here are the most frequent CV mistakes recruiters see (and how to fix them fast).
Why small mistakes matter more than you think
You could have the perfect background for a job — and still get rejected because of one tiny mistake. Whether it's a formatting issue, a spelling slip, or a lack of focus, these small things add up fast when your CV is being compared to dozens (or hundreds) of others.
According to CareerBuilder, 50% of recruiters will reject a CV with a single spelling or grammar error.
The good news? These mistakes are easy to fix — if you know what to look for.
The 10 most common CV mistakes — and how to fix them
Always proofread — and get a second pair of eyes. A small mistake can signal carelessness.
Dense paragraphs overwhelm the reader. Use bullet points and breathing room.
Be specific. What did you achieve? What impact did you make?
Use standard job titles that recruiters understand. Update or remove irrelevant roles.
Stick to reverse-chronological order. Group experience and education clearly.
A one-size-fits-all CV stands out — in a bad way. Adjust it for every application.
If you list tools like Word or basic email, it wastes space. Focus on what matters to the role.
In most cases, skip birthdate, full address, or a photo (unless required).
Your profile is your hook. Use it to position yourself — not to repeat your job title.
Saying “responsible for X” is fine — but show impact: increased sales, saved time, improved results.
Want to know how your CV really holds up?
You only get one chance to make a first impression — and your CV has to work fast. The best way to know where you stand? Get honest, detailed feedback from someone who screens applications professionally.
A recruiter can spot red flags, fix weak sections, and show you what to highlight — so you stand out for the right reasons.
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Ivana Batt
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