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CV Tips – 5 things to avoid

Writing a CV is not easy, and it takes time to get this right. Checking is the key as it is such an important document. As part of any course, we provide free CV tips which include design and support. Here is a short list of 5 things to avoid:

1. Typing errors – this can have a big impact on your image – especially those looking to work as a PA, EA, Administrator etc – so proof read more than once and on different days! Check your grammar as well.

2. Over elaborate design – easy to add in lots of bullet points, bold, colour etc. If the document is too busy it will be more difficult for the person to read it. So, make sure your CV is easy to read, flows well and looks professional.

3. Using ‘I’ – the document should be in the third person rather than I this and I that. The reader will give your CV about 30 seconds scan. So, adding words that do not have any benefits should be avoided.

4. More than 2 pages – if your CV is more than 2 pages the employer may not read all your CV and could be put off. Keeping it factual and to 2 pages is key!

5. No jargon – if you are submitting your CV for a specific job then look at the jargon/terminology used in the advert and mirror this where you can in your CV when describing your training and/or current and previous jobs. The more you do this the more the reader will pick up these key words and put you on the interview list! This could mean you need to adjust your CV for every job you apply for. It’s worth it! You’re’ worth it!

Take your time to get your CV right and build on feedback you receive. Bit by bit the shape and look of your CV will develop and you should find you are getting more of a positive response.

Good luck!

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19 Responses

  1. Fantastic tips that are really useful! I will certainly be using these in the future…

  2. Excellent article, Penny! This will prove useful for updating my CV which stands currently at 3-4 pages, so it is most certainly in need of a fresh overhaul. Great tips, so thank you for sharing!

  3. I have just read this then looked at my cv, and I can tell you a lot has changed for the better of course!
    Very good tips and makes a difference

  4. It certainly is a challenge trying to get the attention of a prospective employer in 30 seconds or less, especially when you know that you’re quite capable of doing the job.

    An interesting article, thank you.

  5. I’ve been told a number of things over the years as to what constitutes an effective CV, but this is clear informative and easy to remember! Thanks for your help Penny/Simon for keeping it focussed!

  6. Thank you so much for great tips. I do always struggle to make good looking CV. This article will help me a lot!

  7. Thank you, Penny, for these very helpful tips which sometime can be overlooked. It is clear, concise and to the point. A very useful tip guide indeed.

  8. Thank you for giving these tips, there were definitely things I wouldn’t have though of and this article will prove helpful to refer to.

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