Fatal Spelling Mistakes on a CV

Sobhan Mohmand, Career Expert          24 Sept 2020

Pretend to be a recruiter; what goes through your mind when you see a single insignificant spelling mistake on a CV of an excellent applicant?

For most people, it would be things in the following lines…

• It can happen to anyone
• This applicant is also only human (believe it or not)
• No big deal, he has excellent education and work experience!

Well, guess what a real recruiter thinks when he/she comes across an ‘insignificant’ spelling mistake on a CV…

• If he couldn’t be bothered to take some time out to write two pages, I can’t be bothered to take time out to read this!
• He doesn’t have an eye for detail
• He doesn’t care
• He lacks writing skills
• He doesn’t strive for perfection

Spelling on your CV can make or break your chances of getting an interview. Guaranteed.

Whenever a recruiter spots a spelling mistake, typo or a silly sentence structure your chances of getting an interview go down by 101%. It is vital that you hand in a CV which doesn’t contain any spelling or grammar mistakes.

How to avoid spelling mistakes on a CV

1. Write a CV
2. Make a second draft
3. Print it out and re-read it (on paper, not on the screen)
4. Re-read it several times, on different days
5. Let at least two other people read your CV carefully and give you feedback
6. Re-read it again (yeah, I am afraid you have to!)
7. Create a final draft
8. Announce a price for anyone finding a spelling/grammar mistake on your CV!

Funny spelling mistakes on CVs

• Dear Sir/Madman
• I am excellent at multi-tasting
• I enjoy cooking Chinese and Italians
• Left previous job because of maturity leave
• Seeking a party-time position as a Consultant
• I also speak German and Spinach