In London’s fast-paced job market, recruiters often scan CVs for less than 10 seconds before deciding whether to keep or reject them. At Resource Provider Ltd, we’ve seen how small oversights can result in missed opportunities. Here’s why CVs get rejected so quickly—and what you can do to stand out.
1. Lack of Focus
A CV that tries to cover everything ends up saying nothing. Recruiters prefer a CV that speaks directly to the role advertised. Tailor your application to the specific job.
2. Weak Personal Statement
A generic opening line like “seeking a challenging role” doesn’t impress. Instead, use your personal statement to showcase what makes you the right fit for the employer.
3. Responsibilities Without Impact
Listing job duties without outcomes makes a CV flat. Employers want to know the difference you made. Use numbers, percentages, and achievements to highlight your value.
4. Overcomplicated Design
Colourful graphics and heavy templates may look stylish but can confuse applicant tracking systems (ATS). Keep formatting simple, professional, and easy to read.
5. Not Matching Skills to the Job Description
Recruiters want to quickly see how your skills align with their needs. Use the job advert as a guide and reflect its keywords in your CV.
6. Career Gaps Without Explanation
Unexplained gaps can raise doubts. If you took time off, briefly explain it and highlight any skills or experiences gained during that period.
How to Stand Out in London’s Job Market
- Keep it relevant – Focus only on skills and experiences that match the job.
- Make it results-driven – Showcase achievements, not just responsibilities.
- Show progression – Employers value growth and consistency in your career journey.
At Resource Provider Ltd, we help professionals across London create CVs that recruiters want to read—not reject. By avoiding common pitfalls and presenting yourself with clarity, you can dramatically improve your chances of getting that all-important interview.