Your CV is often your first chance to make an impression on a potential employer. It’s not just a document that lists your education and work experience—it’s your personal marketing tool. Unfortunately, many young South African job seekers make small but avoidable common CV mistakes that hurt their chances of getting hired.
Whether you’re applying for your first job, an internship, or a learnership, understanding these common CV mistakes and knowing how to avoid them can make all the difference in securing an interview or job offer.
1. Spelling and Grammar Errors
One of the most common CV mistakes is submitting a CV full of spelling and grammar errors. These errors can quickly disqualify you from consideration, as employers often view them as a sign of carelessness or a lack of attention to detail.
Tip: Always use spell check. Ask someone you trust—like a teacher, friend, or family member—to proofread your CV before submitting it to ensure it’s free from errors.
2. Too Long or Too Short
Another common CV mistake is submitting a CV that’s either too long or too short. Some job seekers include irrelevant information or list every experience since primary school, while others fail to include key details like dates or job duties.
Ideal length: Aim for 1 to 2 pages for entry-level positions. Be concise but complete, highlighting what’s relevant to the role you’re applying for and avoiding unnecessary information.
3. Using a Generic CV for Every Job
A common CV mistake many young job seekers make is sending the same CV to multiple employers without tailoring it for each specific role. A generic CV doesn’t show the employer why you’re the perfect fit for the job.
Tip: Tailor your CV to each job application. Highlight the skills, qualifications, and experiences that align with the job requirements. Customising your CV increases your chances of standing out.
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4. Poor Layout and Design
A common CV mistake is having a messy or hard-to-read CV. If your CV looks cluttered or overly fancy, it will often be ignored. Employers are looking for something clean, professional, and easy to scan.
Tip: Stick to a clean, simple layout. Use a readable font like Arial or Calibri and organise your CV with clear headings and consistent formatting. Avoid using too many colours or complicated designs.
Related: Free CV Templates that Pass the Applicant Tracking System in 2025
5. Missing Contact Details
Many job seekers make the common CV mistake of leaving out their contact details or including outdated information. Employers need to be able to reach you quickly.
Tip: Include your full name, current phone number, and professional email address (avoid using nicknames or slang). Double-check that your voicemail is set up and professional.
6. Including Unnecessary Personal Information
Another common CV mistake is including unnecessary personal information like your ID number, marital status, or religion. Unless explicitly requested, this information is irrelevant to the job application and could put your privacy at risk.
Tip: Stick to what’s necessary—your name, contact information, education, and work experience. Avoid including personal information that doesn’t relate to the role.
7. Lying or Exaggerating
It’s tempting to exaggerate your job title or experience, but lying on your CV is one of the most dangerous common CV mistakes you can make. Employers often conduct background checks, and if they catch you lying, it could cost you the job.
Tip: Be honest about your work experience. If you lack formal experience, focus on skills gained through school projects, volunteering, or part-time work.
Related: How to Include Soft Skills in Your CV (With Examples)
8. Not Listing Achievements or Duties
Simply listing your job titles or qualifications without explaining what you did in those roles is another common CV mistake. Employers want to know what specific duties you performed and any achievements you made.
Tip: For each position, include a bullet-point list of your key duties and any accomplishments. For example: “Managed cash register, provided customer service, increased sales by 15%.”
9. Lack of Clarity Around Dates
Vague dates or unexplained gaps in your employment history are common CV mistakes that can raise red flags for employers. If you leave out important dates or don’t explain gaps, the employer may question your reliability or consistency.
Tip: Be specific with your dates—use months and years when possible. For example, write “January 2020 – December 2022.” If there are gaps in your work history, briefly explain them in your cover letter or interview.
10. Using Informal Language
A common CV mistake is using informal language or slang. While you might want your CV to feel approachable, it’s important to keep it professional. Avoid using abbreviations or emojis.
Tip: Write in clear, full sentences or concise bullet points. Keep the tone professional and avoid anything too casual.
11. Not Highlighting Transferable Skills
Many young job seekers make the common CV mistake of not showcasing transferable skills. Even if you don’t have direct work experience, you likely have skills like teamwork, communication, or problem-solving that are valuable to employers.
Tip: In a “Skills” or “Volunteer Work” section, highlight relevant skills and experiences that demonstrate your ability to contribute, even if they’re from informal roles.
12. Sending in the Wrong Format
A common CV mistake is sending your CV in an unreadable or incorrect format. Sending a CV as an image or in a format that the employer can’t open could cause delays or even get your application overlooked.
Tip: Save your CV as a PDF. This ensures that your formatting stays intact. Name the file clearly, e.g., “Thabo_Mokoena_CV.pdf,” and make sure it’s easy for the employer to access.
Related: Best Free PDF Scanner Apps for Submitting Documents Online
13. Not Following Application Instructions
Failing to follow specific instructions in a job ad is another common CV mistake. If the job posting asks for a cover letter or specific subject line, ignoring these instructions may result in your CV being disregarded.
Tip: Read the job ad carefully and follow all instructions exactly. Whether it’s submitting a cover letter, adding a particular subject line, or providing references, doing so shows your attention to detail.
Final Thoughts
A well-crafted CV is essential to landing your dream job, especially in a competitive job market like South Africa. Avoiding these common CV mistakes can help you stand out and increase your chances of securing an interview and job offer.
Remember, your CV doesn’t need to be perfect, but it must be professional, honest, and tailored to the job you’re applying for. Take the time to edit, update, and improve your CV regularly to keep it relevant and impactful.
Need Help?
If you’re unsure about your CV, there are plenty of resources available. Many local libraries, community centres, and youth organisations offer free CV writing support. You can also find helpful templates and tips on websites like SAYouth.mobi and LinkedIn.
