8 mistakes to avoid in your resume

8 mistakes to avoid in your resume

Even for the most qualified candidates, creating the ideal CV may be a tough challenge. While we spend so much time deciding what to include - and how to fit it all into that perfect format - we must also determine what not to include. While it may be easy to stuff your CV with unnecessary content, it is sometimes better to focus on the main point not to miss.

The only information your CV has to convey is that you are  the most qualified and the most competent in your role.

Here are some pitfalls to avoid while creating your CV:

1. Don’t include the objective session

When it comes to current cv, the objective section is essentially a distant memory. When you want to be as succinct as possible, objectives take a significant amount of screen space. 

Instead of writing a goal, you might include a brief descriptive note that tells the hiring manager about yourself and why you stand out from the competition. Replace objective assertions with a concise professional summary that highlights your abilities, accomplishments, characteristics, and credentials.

2. Including "References Available on Request" in your resume

If they ask for references, it is presumed that you will supply them. This line on your CV is merely a waste of space that might be allocated for something more valuable.

Before employing you, the legal firm is likely to investigate all of your social media accounts, do a "light" screening, and learn all they can about you (and in some cases even before bringing you in the door for an interview).

3. Business email

It is awkward to conduct your job hunt using your business email system unless you own the company. Furthermore, it conveys the appearance that you are job hunting on the time of your existing employer. For your job hunt, use a personal email account. Creative and unusual email addresses are more frequent than you may assume. Be sure your personal email address is formal.

4. Social media profiles that are out of date or obsolete

Include no social media profiles on your resume that have unprofessional material, do not promote your current work aspirations, and are not routinely revised. If you add the URL of a social media profile on your resume, make sure it represents your personal brand and demonstrates why you're suitable for the position.

In addition, depending on your industry, build at least one professional web presence on sites like LinkedIn and put the link at the top of your cv. 

5. Inconsistent work experience

Your CV is not a rundown of every job you've had since graduating. Only highlight the things you performed or accomplished that will be necessary or relevant in your new career. Remove  anything you performed at a previous job that is not relevant to the position you're looking for.

6. Awards, hobbies and interests not related to work

You may believe that including any distinctions you've earned or discussing your hobbies and interests is a good strategy. 

Leave this part off if you have hobbies or interests that have nothing to do with the work. It's best to leave things off that could make your CV stand out in the wrong way.

The only exception is if the honour, hobby, or interest is directly related to the job.

7. Proficiency in It and software

If you are a solicitor, it is presumed that you and other candidates are familiar with Microsoft Word and other Office products. This is not a noteworthy information to add on your CV. It is not necessary to highlight your experience with certain software. Instead, mention it lightly when describing the legal research you've done in a certain job.

8. Odd formatting and content blocks, inappropriate tone and date mistakes

Nothing may preclude you from a job more easily than sloppy formatting errors. When someone reads your CV, the words you pick might reveal a lot about you.

Using jargon that not everyone understands Solicitors need to speak clearly and concisely. In your CV, avoid using large terms that draw attention to your vocabulary. Don't load your profile with adjectives.

You must speak concisely in your resume and make it simple to read and understand. You also don't want to use too many words in your resume when you might express the same thing in less sentences. Saying less is saying more since it demonstrates your ability to evaluate yourself and your work.

Your resume is a dynamic, active document that promotes the structuring of your career history. It's a good idea to update your resume on a regular basis and stay up with resume trends to demonstrate that you're knowledgeable, updated, and mindful of what's in and out of style. Concentrate on areas where you can demonstrate your abilities and where your expertise and accomplishments speak for themselves.

There are several pitfalls to avoid while creating a resume, so once you have it in decent condition, you should get it evaluated to ensure that it is ready to go.

For support or career advice, check out our resources:

• view the latest vacancies at Gazette Jobs, where you can sign up for job alerts and upload your CV

• read our comprehensive career development advice

• visit our careers YouTube channel to find videos which cover common career queries.