Common CV Mistakes to Avoid in 2026
Recruiters are looking for clarity, relevance, and professionalism. Avoid these common CV mistakes to make sure your application stands out.
1. Using Outdated Formats
Many candidates still use old-style CVs with heavy paragraphs and crowded layouts. Modern CVs are concise, clean, and easy to scan.
2. Typos and Grammar Errors
Spelling mistakes or inconsistent punctuation immediately signal carelessness. Always proofread and, if possible, have someone else review your CV.
3. Overloading with Irrelevant Information
Including unrelated jobs, hobbies, or outdated skills can distract from your strengths. Focus on what’s relevant to the role you’re applying for.
4. Forgetting Keywords
Many companies use ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) to scan CVs for keywords. Failing to include relevant terms can prevent your CV from even reaching a recruiter.
5. Poor Visual Hierarchy
Avoid long blocks of text without headings, bolding, or spacing. Recruiters skim CVs; good formatting ensures your most important achievements are noticed.
How to Fix These Mistakes Easily
The easiest way to avoid these mistakes is to use a professional CV builder like CV On The Go. It guides you step-by-step, provides modern templates, and formats your CV automatically so you never miss important details.
More resources: How to Create a CV on Your Phone | Best CV Format for 2026 | Top Skills Employers Look for | How to Make Your CV ATS-Friendly in 2026 | Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a CV on Your Phone | How to Write a CV That Gets Interviews Fast | How to Update Your CV for Career Growth in 2026 | Secrets to a CV That Stands Out in 2026 | Top Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Your CV in 2026 | How to Write Your First CV With No Work Experience | How to Write a Career Change CV in 2026 | How Long Should a CV Be in 2026 | How to Write a Professional CV Summary | How to Tailor Your CV for Each Job | What to Include and Exclude From Your CV | How to Explain Employment Gaps | CV vs Resume: Key Differences | How to Use Keywords to Get Past ATS | Should You Include a Photo on Your CV