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Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation

Even the smallest error in your CV, covering letter or application form could cost you an interview, if spotted by your employer. Recruiters need to shortlist candidates in a very short space of time. If your CV has any flaws in it at all, it will almost certainly be dismissed.

Spend time checking and double-checking your applications. Quality is far more important than quantity. Sending out a lot of poor-quality applications will result in very few interviews, if any.

Proof-reading

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Your CV needs to be perfect. It's easy to overlook mistakes, especially if you rely on computer spell checks. You must check your CV and application forms yourself, several times.

Tenses

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Many candidates make the mistake of using several tenses when describing their previous work experience of past achievements. This is confusing and not advised. It shows a lack of continuity and attention to detail. For example:

Jan 2007 - June 2008 J.R.S. Services, Receptionist

  • I have organised key staff
  • Typed letters and emails
  • Was commended for always greeting clients amicably

Three different tenses are being used here. This position was in the past, so it would be best to stick to the simple past tense, e.g. I organised, I typed and I greeted. Choose one tense and stick to it for each job you are describing. If possible, stick to one tense for all the jobs you are describing.

Passive

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Avoid using the passive at all costs. In applications, the emphasis is on you and recruiters are looking for evidence of personal involvement and contribution. The passive is used to when no specific person did something. Your CV and application form needs to focus on you and your own achievements.

Strong language and active verbs will help to make an impact on recruiters and help you to sell yourself more effectively. For example, compare the following:

  • Passive: A fundraising event was organised, 100 people came and £10,000 was raised for charity.
  • Active: I organised a fundraising event, invited 100 people and raised £10,000 for charity.

Take ownership for your own involvement by using strong verbs to demonstrate your achievements.

"I" instead of "we"

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In written applications, the emphasis needs to be on your involvement and achievements. Therefore you should never use "one" or "we". You need use "I" throughout your application to take responsibility for your actions. The employer needs to see how you can add value to their organisation.