In many cases, sending in your resume will be the first contact you have with a potential employer, which means it’s important to make a good impression.
Yet, CV mistakes are still a common occurrence among candidates who are applying for vacancies. This is why you should always take your time when completing your resume, as just a single error could mean the difference between securing an interview or being shifted into the rejection pile.
If you are writing a resume to apply for an apprenticeship or traineeship, there are a number of tools and resources available at Apprenticeship Central to help you find and pursue your dream career. Register online and you can also directly contact employers who are offering vacancies.
Make sure your CV is in optimal condition by checking whether or not you are guilty of any of these mistakes.
1. Typos
It’s such an obvious mistake but typos remain among the most frequent issues with resumes. Even if spelling, grammar and punctuation aren’t a core skill for your job, you should always try to avoid typos as it suggests a poor eye for detail and it may come across that you’re not interested enough in the job to make an effort.
2. Garish colours and formatting
Structuring your CV and picking the right fonts and colours is important, which is why Apprenticeship Central offers Resume Templates to give you a helping hand. This will ensure your applications look sleek and professional when you send them on to employers.
3. Too long/too short
A common rule of thumb is to write a resume across two pages of A4 paper. If you’re finding it difficult to cut your CV down, try using bullet points and removing any non-relevant jobs. On the other hand, if you don’t have much work experience, try adding hobbies, interests and relatable school projects to flesh your resume out.
4. Too generic
When you’re applying for numerous positions, it can be tempting to simply email a generic CV and cover letter to every employer. However, you are much more likely to have success if you tailor each application specifically to the job description you are applying for.
5. Failing to list accomplishments
Many people fall into the trap of listing their duties rather than their accomplishments. Highlight your previous achievements and be specific about any educational awards, promotions or other notable triumphs that make you a more attractive applicant.
