When you are applying for 15 different jobs in just half an hour, it may difficult to spend some extra time on your CV. But this lack of attention may cost you that important interview you have been waiting for.
We listed here the most common mistakes that candidates make, so you can avoid them next time you are applying for a job.
1. Bad grammar: Spell check and autocorrect can help you with your spelling but they may do very little for your grammar. Ask your teacher or a friend in an upper level class to proofread your CV. Make sure you haven’t written “your” instead of “you’re” (a very common mistake), and check if you are using the British spelling of words, instead of the American.
2. Poor formatting: Keep the format of your CV as simple as possible. Use classic fonts, such as Arial or Times New Roman, at size 10 or 12. Don’t even consider different colours or backgrounds. Keep in mind that computers have different configurations, and a simple format will be easy to read in any screen, including smartphones and tablets.
3. Avoid a second page: The ability to concise what you have to say in just one page shows great communication skills. Only mention the qualifications which are relevant for the position you are applying for. Do you really need to list all the grades from that course you attended? Probably not.
4. List interests that relate to personal development: Personal hobbies such as cooking and reading are not very dynamic and original. Foreign languages and voluntary work show varied interests and leadership abilities. Be comfortable with the hobbies listed here, as the interviewer can use them as an ice-breaker during the interview.
Research indicates that employers spend just 8.8 seconds reviewing each CV so a good first impression is essential.
If you need any extra help with your UK university application, please come to our drop-in session with free one-to-one consulting at our Bloomsbury Reception on Thursday 13 August from 11h30 to 13h. It will be the perfect opportunity to discuss your individual plans, choose universities and courses, fill out application forms, and submit your application. You can confirm your attendance here.
Original post on Stylist.
photo credit: East Side Gallery via photopin (license)
