Graduate CV Mistakes That Cost You Interviews (And How to Fix Them)
Most graduate CVs make the same mistakes. Here's how to spot them, and what to do instead.
A CV doesn't get you the job, but a bad CV stops you getting the interview. We see a lot of graduate CVs, and the same mistakes come up again and again.
It's too long
One page. Maybe two if you genuinely have the experience to fill it. Most graduates don't, and trying to fill two pages with thin content makes you look less impressive, not more. Cut ruthlessly.
It lists responsibilities instead of achievements
"Responsible for managing social media accounts" tells us what your job involved. "Grew Instagram following from 400 to 4,200 over six months" tells us what you actually did. Wherever possible, lead with outcomes.
The personal statement says nothing
"I am a motivated and hard-working graduate looking for an opportunity to develop my skills in a dynamic environment." If this sounds like your opening paragraph, delete it and start again. Tell us specifically what you want and why, in two or three sentences.
It ignores the job description
Your CV should be tailored to each role. Not reinvented, but adjusted to emphasise the experiences and skills most relevant to what the employer is looking for. If you're sending identical CVs to every application, you're leaving easy wins on the table.
The best graduate CVs are clear, specific, and evidence-led. They don't try to impress: they inform.
timberseed.
Looking for your next commercial role?
We specialise in SaaS sales and executive search. If you're a graduate looking to break in, or an experienced hire looking for a move, we'd like to hear from you.