Ever wondered what information should NOT be included in your CV or application when applying for jobs in Zambia? Go Zambia Jobs have compiled a list of 5 things not to include in your CV or application.
1. Entire life-story
When submitting a job application you have very little time to impress. The recruiter will quickly look at your application and think, “Why should I interview this person? What benefits will they bring to the organisation? Do they meet the selection criteria?” When compiling your CV ensure that you include information that shows how you meet the selection criteria and what benefits you will bring to the organisation. Make this information obvious to the recruiter by not burying this information in a long winded life story.
2. Bad Design and Formatting
First impressions count and before the recruiter has even had chance to read the content they will already have noticed the design and formatting. Always try to make your CV design and formatting suitable for the role to which you are applying. Try to design a simple but professional looking CV. Avoid the use of multiple fonts, styles and colours.
3. Spelling & Grammatical Errors
Imagine that you are an employer looking to recruit for a position in your company. You receive 50 applications and can only interview 10. There is very little between the candidates in terms of skills and experience but you know you only have the time to interview 5. What is a simple way to eliminate 5 candidates? Always use a spell checker, re-read your CV before applying and if possible get a friend or colleague to double-check. Try to avoid ruling yourself out of a job opportunity because of spelling and grammatical errors.
4. False or Misleading Information
Employers and recruiters can often spot information that is false or misleading. With the increasing amount of digital and online information it is easier than ever for employers to check information provided. Even if you manage to go undetected through the application process the use of misleading information could still count against you at a later date.
5. Incorrect Contact Information
If the employer cannot get in touch with you then they cannot invite you to an interview. Check, double-check and check again to ensure that your contact details are correct. Also, it is important to remember that if you provide a contact number or email address the employer may actually call or email you. You should therefore ensure that you have a suitable answerphone message and that any auto email reply is appropriate.
Additional Resources
- CV Templates
- What do employers really want?
- How to submit job applications via email
- Why you should NEVER send the same CV twice
- Top 10 interview questions and answers
Further Information
To find more careers articles visit: Careers Advice
Search for Jobs
To search for the latest jobs in Zambia visit: www.gozambiajobs.com