A summary of 10 mistakes to avoid when writing his CV

1. Your resume represents you, so make sure you polish its
content and its presentation.
10 Mistakes
to avoid when
writing your CV
1. Using a title of "Curriculum Vitae"
Rather than "curriculum vitae", choose a title that gives color to
your career. For example, mention "Maintenance Technician
with 3 years of experience", or “System Engineer / specialty:
aeronautics”. In one sentence you should then explain your
desire for development or your interest in the field in the
section entitled “Objectives”.
3. Lists without explanation
A vague list of your experience and trainings is not attractive to employers and
listing only the titles of your diplomas and trainings is not enough. Make every
effort to put in details of your different skills and tasks to give concrete informa-tion
to the employer. If you are a fresh graduate, highlight your thesis topic, as
well as any internships you completed during your studies.
5. Telling your life story in several pages
A CV should preferably fit on one page to attract maximum concentration
from employers. Select only the most relevant, attractive information to
make the best impact. For example, do not mention your Baccalaureate
when you are an advanced engineer. The objective of a CV is not to present
all of your experience. It is rather to highlight your qualifications for a
specific need and a specific position. Being concise is therefore required.
7. A CV without contact information
Mention your phone number and email address as a means to
contact you. Even if you have provided these in your initial letter
or email, nothing should be left to chance.
10. Sending your CV in Word format
To make sure the layout of your CV stays as you intended it to be, always
send your CV in PDF format. This will ensure that your fonts and spacing
don’t change if the employer uses a word processor that is different from
your own, which may make your CV unattractive or unreadable.
2. No photo
Even if a photograph is not an obligation it may give your
CV a personal aspect. The photograph is your first
contact with the employer so use an image that best
presents you - preferably a color photo that creates a
positive image.
4. IT skills and languages as simple details
Be sure to highlight your IT skills as well as your language skills: these are very important in the
modern workplace. Be sure to detail your foreign language proficiency: oral and written. List the
different technology you have mastered that is relevant to what you are aiming for.
6. Neglecting volunteer work
Small jobs and volunteering are not rewarding? These are
valuable ways to show you have initiative and motivation.
Employers appreciate these points as a sign of good will and
resourcefulness.
8. Spelling and grammar mistakes
The smallest error can turn off a future employer so be sure to have someone
look over your CV with a critical eye to find something that the spell-checker
overlooked. For example, be sure you start by properly capitalizing your first and
last name! Every detail counts!
9. Photocopied CV
For the sake of saving time, candidates may make black and white copies of their CV
before submitting them. Remember that your CV represents you, and the slightest
detail counts. Whenever possible, try to prepare colored copies of your CV printed in
a good quality.
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