Sending an application that reflects your qualifications and professionalism shouldn’t be complicated. Yet many applicants miss out on opportunities because of basic, preventable mistakes. These errors can suggest a lack of care, even when your experience and skills are solid. Most of the time, they happen when you’re in a rush or using an old CV you haven’t reviewed closely.
These aren’t dramatic failures. They’re small choices that influence whether your CV gets read or skipped. The fix? Slowing down, reviewing everything carefully, and being a bit more intentional at every stage.
Generic Applications Sent Without Customisation
Recruiters can tell when an application hasn’t been tailored. Submitting the same CV and cover letter for every role often results in your application being overlooked. Employers want to see that you understand the specific role you’re applying for. That means reflecting the job description in your skills section and making relevant experience stand out.
Highlight the attributes that relate directly to what the company is asking for. Use the same terminology found in the job ad where possible. This shows that you’ve paid attention and are genuinely interested. It also helps with applicant tracking systems, which scan for matching terms. Personalise your cover letter too. A generic opening paragraph doesn’t make a strong impression.
If the job mentions particular tools or soft skills, make sure these are reflected clearly in your application. Even changing a few lines to suit the role can make your CV far more relevant.
Oversized or Awkward File Attachments
Some hiring teams won’t open large files or those that take too long to load. Keeping your documents light and accessible helps make a positive first impression. Using a standard file format like PDF is best, but that can still cause problems if the file is too large or cluttered with graphics.
Some employers receive hundreds of applications, and large files may be flagged or blocked by their email systems. Including unnecessary design elements can also cause formatting issues when opened on different devices. It’s worth taking a few moments to compress your PDF file before sending it. This keeps it quick to open and easy to review.
Doing so can also help avoid problems with file sharing. Some application portals have file size restrictions, and a compressed version reduces the risk of upload errors or delays.
Poor CV Formatting or Visual Inconsistencies
An easy way to lose credibility is through a CV that looks messy. Formatting issues like inconsistent spacing, unusual font choices, or poor alignment can distract from your content. These small details reflect how much care you’ve taken. A polished layout shows professionalism and makes your CV easier to scan.
Stick to clear headings, logical structure, and consistent formatting throughout. Keep font choices simple and readable. Use bullet points to break up information, but ensure they’re aligned and tidy. Avoid mixing styles or using symbols that don’t translate well across platforms.
Spacing matters too. Avoid packing everything tightly or leaving large gaps. Aim for a clean, balanced document that’s easy on the eyes. Use white space to separate sections without wasting space.
Typos, Spelling Errors, and Grammar Issues
Applications filled with spelling and grammar errors rarely get a second look. Even one mistake can suggest a lack of attention. Most people use spellcheck tools, but these won’t catch everything. Grammar issues, awkward phrasing, or the wrong tone can easily slip through.
Proofreading is key. Reading your application out loud helps catch mistakes that your eyes might skip over. It also helps you notice sentences that sound awkward or overly complicated. Getting a friend or colleague to review it can be helpful too. Someone with fresh eyes will spot things you might miss after reviewing it repeatedly.
Use UK English spellings unless otherwise requested. Applications should reflect a consistent tone throughout. Mixing formal and informal language weakens your message.
Missing or Incorrect Contact Details
It’s easy to forget to update your contact information, especially when reusing older documents. However, sending a CV with an outdated phone number or a non-functional link could mean missing out entirely. Hiring managers won’t chase you down if they can’t reach you easily.
Before sending any application, double-check that your phone number and email address are correct. If you’ve included a LinkedIn profile or online portfolio, make sure those links work and open without issue. Broken or outdated links can make your application feel sloppy.
Skipping Instructions or Sending Late
Many job listings include specific instructions about how to apply. These might include file naming formats, subject line wording, or even times by which applications need to be received. Ignoring these details can lead to your application being discarded, regardless of how qualified you are.
Always read the full job ad carefully and follow every instruction. Save your documents using the requested format and name. Sending a file titled “new_CV_v7_final_fixed” looks rushed. Use something clean like “Firstname_Lastname_CV”.
Avoid sending your application minutes before the deadline. Systems crash, connections fail, and last-minute stress can cause avoidable mistakes. Give yourself a day or two to prepare, then do one final check before sending.
Final Checks That Make All the Difference
Submitting an application without errors gives you a much better chance of getting noticed. Review everything carefully. Read your documents aloud. Check your formatting, links, and contact information. Ask someone else to read through your application if possible.
These steps take a bit more time, but they pay off. Sending a polished, accurate application shows that you care about the role and take yourself seriously as a candidate. It also means the employer has everything they need to reach you and move your application forward.
Get Ahead with Better Application Habits
Improving how you submit your applications doesn’t require a full overhaul. It just takes attention to detail. Proofreading, formatting, and preparing your documents properly can set you apart.
Before your next submission, run through a short checklist: Is everything clearly laid out? Are your links working? Have you compressed your files where needed? Have you followed any specific instructions from the employer? These habits reduce the chance of being overlooked for reasons unrelated to your skills or experience.
Candidates who show professionalism and care at every step are more likely to be invited to interviews. It starts with making sure your application arrives polished and easy to process — and ends with you giving yourself the best possible chance to succeed.
