When applying for roles in London’s competitive job market, your CV is often the first impression you make. Recruiters might scan dozens, if not hundreds, of applications in a single day. With so many candidates to consider, even small mistakes can mean your CV gets overlooked.
To help you avoid falling into the same traps, here are five of the most common CV mistakes that London recruiters see every day — and what you should do instead.
1. Using a Generic CV for Every Application
One of the biggest mistakes candidates make is sending the same CV to every job. Recruiters can spot a copy-and-paste application instantly. Employers in London expect you to demonstrate that you’ve understood the role and taken the time to tailor your CV.
What to do instead:
Adapt your CV for each application. Highlight skills and experiences most relevant to the specific role and industry. For example, if you’re applying for a finance position in the City, emphasise analytical skills, accuracy, and familiarity with financial systems. For a creative role in Shoreditch, showcase projects, design skills, or campaigns. Even a small tweak to the personal statement or key skills section can make a big difference.
2. Overloading with Buzzwords and Jargon
Recruiters see countless CVs filled with words like “hard-working”, “team player”, “results-driven”. While these terms aren’t necessarily bad, they mean very little without proof. Similarly, cramming in too much jargon can make your CV difficult to read.
What to do instead:
Focus on concrete achievements. Instead of saying “excellent communication skills”, write something like: “Presented monthly reports to senior management, simplifying technical data for non-specialist audiences.” Numbers and outcomes speak louder than buzzwords.
3. Poor Formatting and Length
In a city as busy as London, recruiters don’t have time to hunt for information hidden in dense paragraphs or six-page documents. A poorly formatted CV — small fonts, no headings, or inconsistent layouts — can be a dealbreaker.
What to do instead:
Keep your CV to a maximum of two pages. Use clear headings (Education, Experience, Skills), bullet points, and consistent fonts. White space is your friend; it makes your CV easier to scan quickly. Recruiters should be able to find your qualifications and key skills in under 30 seconds. If you’re struggling with layout, use a professional CV template or tools like Canva or Novoresume.
4. Ignoring London-Specific Details
London employers sometimes look for details that candidates overlook. For example, not including your location can raise questions about whether you’re realistically able to commute. International applicants occasionally forget to mention visa status, which can put recruiters off.
What to do instead:
Always include your location (or willingness to relocate). For example: “Based in South London, flexible to work across the capital.” If you’re an international applicant, state your right to work status clearly. This helps recruiters filter quickly and avoids your CV being discarded unnecessarily.
5. Neglecting to Show Personality
In such a competitive environment, recruiters are not only looking for skills — they also want to see whether you’d fit within a company’s culture. A CV that lists duties without any sense of enthusiasm or individuality can come across as dull or uninspired.
What to do instead:
Add a short personal profile at the top of your CV. This is your chance to highlight what drives you, what you’re passionate about, and the kind of role you’re seeking. For instance:
“Marketing professional with three years’ experience in social media strategy. Passionate about helping London start-ups grow their brand and connect with audiences.”
Additionally, don’t be afraid to include interests or voluntary work, especially if they demonstrate transferable skills or commitment. A recruiter who shares your interest in running or community volunteering may remember you more easily.