Your CV is your marketing tool, and successful marketing is a key part of getting hired…

It’s not uncommon for people to make the same mistakes in their CV over and over again, which means that identifying those mistakes (and fixing them) can put you at a significant advantage over the competition.

So let’s identify them…

1. Poor Grammar

These days, every word processor has a spell check and a grammar check built-in, yet CVs continue to be plagued by spelling mistakes. What does that say to your potential employer?

It suggests a lack of attention to detail, and regardless of the position you’re applying for, that’s a big deal. Your employer wants to know that you take pride in your work, and failing to do something as simple as proof-reading doesn’t exactly send that message.

2. Little Experience

A common complaint among jobseekers is that it’s so hard to get employed without experience, but without being hired for a job in the first place, it’s impossible to get experience.

The truth is, though, that isn’t true. Experience is everywhere! Applying for a retail position? Volunteer in a charity shop. Applying to a film production company? Go out and shoot a film with your mates.

3. Presentation Is… Interesting

We all love WordArt, but sometimes it just isn’t appropriate. CVs are a prime example.

Keep your CV simple and concise. Keep the information on topic, and don’t distract the reader with unnecessary colour or imagery. You should be trying to market yourself as professional and focused, so your CV should appear just like that.

4. It Isn’t 21st Century Friendly

The days of sending your CV through the post, or even going to your prospective employer’s headquarters to submit it in person, are fading fast. These days, the majority of applications are made online.

With this in mind, your CV should sit comfortably in the digital age. Your web and email address should be a hyperlink, allowing for easy contact. Haven’t got a website? Go and create one. An employer’s first order of business will usually be to inspect your digital presence, so make sure it’s a good one.