competitive job market, your CV is your first and often only chance to make a strong impression. But UK recruiters go through hundreds of CVs weekly, and they can instantly detect common errors that can cost candidates interviews even if they’re otherwise qualified.
At Resource Provider Ltd, we work with hiring managers across industries and know exactly what gets your CV noticed for the right or wrong reasons. Here are the top 10 CV mistakes UK recruiters flag immediately and how you can avoid them.
1. Typos, Grammar Errors, and Spelling Mistakes
Nothing screams unprofessional more than a CV full of spelling errors or poor grammar. UK employers expect attention to detail, and one typo can be all it takes to land your CV in the “no” pile.
Fix it: Use spell check, ask someone to proofread it, and take a break before reviewing it again with fresh eyes.
2. Generic Personal Statements
Recruiters are tired of reading vague statements like “I am a hardworking individual seeking a challenging position.” It tells them nothing specific about you or your goals.
Fix it: Tailor your personal statement to the role and company. Show what value you bring and what you’re looking for in your next step.
3. Poor Formatting and Layout
If your CV is cluttered, hard to read, or looks outdated, recruiters might not bother reading it.
Fix it: Stick to a clean, professional layout. Use consistent fonts, bullet points, and spacing. A well-organised CV is easier to scan and makes a better impression.
4. Too Long or Too Short
A one-page CV might leave out important details, while a five-page CV overwhelms recruiters.
Fix it: For most UK roles, aim for two pages. Be concise, relevant, and focused on achievements rather than just listing duties.
5. Listing Duties Instead of Achievements
Recruiters don’t just want to see what you were responsible for they want to know what you accomplished.
Fix it: Use action verbs and quantify your achievements where possible. For example, “Increased social media engagement by 40% in six months” is far more impressive than “Managed company’s social media.”
6. Missing Keywords
Many companies now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen CVs before a human ever sees them. If your CV doesn’t include the right keywords, it might not get through.
Fix it: Use keywords from the job description but do it naturally. Don’t stuff them in; ensure they reflect your actual experience.
7. Outdated Information
Including an old email address, irrelevant jobs from 15 years ago, or outdated skills (like “proficient in Microsoft Word”) can make your CV seem out of touch.
Fix it: Keep it current. Highlight the most recent and relevant roles, and update your contact info. Only include tech or tools still used in the industry.
8. Unexplained Gaps in Employment
While career gaps are more common now, not explaining them can raise concerns.
Fix it: Briefly explain any gaps in your cover letter or CV (e.g., “Career break due to parental leave” or “Freelance work while travelling”). Transparency builds trust.
9. Using the Same CV for Every Job
If you’re applying for ten different roles with the same CV, chances are none of them are tailored enough to stand out.
Fix it: Customise your CV for each role. Highlight the most relevant experience, skills, and achievements for that particular job.
10. Lack of Contact Information
You’d be surprised how many candidates forget to include their phone number, email address, or LinkedIn profile.
Fix it: Always add updated and professional contact details at the top of your CV. Make it easy for recruiters to reach you.
Final Thoughts from Resource Provider Ltd
Recruiters don’t spend long reviewing each CV sometimes less than 30 seconds. That’s why avoiding these mistakes can make all the difference. A clear, focused, and tailored CV not only gets you noticed but can be the first step toward landing your ideal job.
If you’re not sure how your CV stacks up, or if you’re struggling to get interview calls, our team at Resource Provider Ltd can help. From professional CV reviews to job-matching support, we’re here to get you hired faster and smarter.