Most recruiters decide whether to keep reading your CV within seconds. That isn't harsh; it's volume. When one role attracts hundreds of applications, the first scan decides everything. 1. No clear headline Your name is not a headline. Add one line under it that says who you are and what you do:…
Most recruiters decide whether to keep reading your CV within seconds. That isn't harsh; it's volume. When one role attracts hundreds of applications, the first scan decides everything.
1. No clear headline
Your name is not a headline. Add one line under it that says who you are and what you do: Finance Analyst | Budgeting & Reporting | 4 years in FMCG.
2. Duties instead of results
"Responsible for sales" tells me nothing. "Grew regional sales by 22% in 12 months" tells me everything. Lead every bullet with a result, then show how you got it.
3. Too long, too dense
Two pages is plenty for most people. Use short bullets, white space and consistent dates so the important things are easy to find.
4. One CV for every job
Match your CV to each role. Mirror the key skills in the job description, honestly, so both the recruiter and the screening software can see the fit.
5. Missing keywords
Applicant tracking systems search for skills and job titles. If the role asks for "stakeholder management" and you call it "working with teams", you may never be seen.
6. Unprofessional details
- An email address you made in secondary school
- A photo that looks like a party picture
- Your full home address, date of birth and state of origin (not needed)
7. Typos
Read it aloud, then ask someone else to read it. A single typo can suggest carelessness in a role that needs attention to detail.
Fix these seven and you'll already be ahead of most of the pile.
