7 Horrors of a bad CV

Tips on how to not get spooked when writing a CV + a CV guide

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In the competitive job market of today, your CV (Curriculum Vitae) is your first impression on potential employers. It's the document that can make or break your chances of landing that dream job. A well-crafted CV can open doors to exciting opportunities, but a bad one can be a horror show that haunts your job search. Let's explore the seven horrors of a bad CV, with a special focus on the ATS (Applicant Tracking System) Monster and how to avoid its grasp.

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1. The Ghastly Formatting

Picture this – you open a CV, and it's an unorganized, jumbled mess of text. Fonts change from line to line, headings are inconsistent, and bullet points look like they were shot from a shotgun. This is the first horror of a bad CV. A professionally formatted CV is essential to make a positive impression, especially because ATS relies on structured data. Stick to a clean and consistent layout with readable fonts and a clear hierarchy.

2. The Zombie Language

A bad CV often features bland and lifeless language. It uses clichés and buzzwords without offering concrete details. Phrases like "team player," "strong work ethic," and "excellent communication skills" can make your CV sound like it's been resurrected from the dead. ATS is looking for relevant keywords, so make sure to include industry-specific terms and skills to get past this monster.

3. The Cryptic Objective

Some CVs include a vague and generic objective statement that adds no value. Instead of simply stating, "Seeking a challenging position in a dynamic company," craft a compelling career summary that includes relevant keywords for the ATS to latch onto.

4. The Mummy's Tomb of Irrelevant Information

A CV should be a concise summary of your relevant qualifications and experiences. A bad CV includes irrelevant information that the ATS may not understand. Focus on keywords that match the job description, ensuring the ATS recognizes your qualifications.

5. The Ghostly Gaps

Unexplained gaps in your employment history are a major red flag for employers. ATS can misinterpret these gaps, causing your CV to be discarded. Address gaps with honesty and include any relevant keywords or skills you acquired during those periods.

6. The Phantom Achievements

Listing job responsibilities without highlighting your achievements is another horror. A great CV should emphasize what you've accomplished in previous roles. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to showcase how you made a positive impact and make sure to incorporate relevant achievements as keywords.

7. The Frankenstein's Monster-Length CV

An excessively long CV can be terrifying for employers, and the ATS may struggle to parse lengthy documents. They don't have time to read a novel. Keep your CV concise, focusing on the most recent and relevant experiences.

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In conclusion, your CV is a powerful tool that can either propel your career forward or hold it back. But it's essential to remember the ATS Monster, which screens CVs before they ever reach human eyes. By avoiding these seven horrors and optimizing your CV for ATS compatibility, you can create a document that captures the attention of both automated systems and potential employers, increasing your chances of landing that dream job. Your CV doesn't have to be a horror story; instead, it can be the key to unlocking your future.

To help you navigate the treacherous waters of CV writing, we offer a comprehensive CV guide that will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to create a CV that shines. From templates to ChatGPT prompts - we got you covered.