5 CV mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Sometimes, writing a CV can feel like trying to solve a puzzle without all of the pieces.
If you've never had a job before, you might wonder what you’re supposed to write. The truth is that every employer knows you have to start somewhere.
A CV isn't about having years of experience. It's about showing your potential, your attitude and your willingness to learn.
Here are five of the most common CV mistakes teenagers make; and how you can avoid them.
Thinking you need lots of working experience
One of the biggest myths is that a CV only matters if you've already had a job. Not true.
Employers understand that many young people are applying for their first opportunity. Instead of worrying about what you don't have, focus on what you do have.
You can include:
Volunteering
School or college projects
Sports teams
Clubs and societies
Caring responsibilities
Personal projects (coding, art, music, gaming mods, appropriate social media content. It all counts)
Every experience tells a story about who you are and how you show up.
Using the same CV for every opportunity
Sending the same CV everywhere is like wearing the same outfit to every event – it won’t always suit the environment.
No two opportunities are the same, so your CV shouldn't be either.
Take a few minutes to read the job description and tweak your CV so it matches what the employer is looking for. Adjust your personal statement and bring forward relevant skills that make sense for that job.
A tailored CV shows effort, and that stands out.
Forgetting to highlight your skills
Most people entering the workplace underestimate the skills they've already developed. You probably have more than you think.
Employers value:
Communication
Teamwork
Problem-solving
Creativity
Reliability
Digital Confidence
Ask yourself: "What experience can I highlight, that proves I can do this job?"
Your examples don't need to come from paid work. They can come from school, hobbies, family responsibilities or anything else that shows who you are.
Making your CV hard to read
According to studies by Ladders and InterviewPal, recruiters make an initial decision on a CV within 15 seconds. That means clarity is your best friend.
Keep it simple:
Clear headings
Short bullet points
Consistent formatting
Easy to read fonts
No spelling or grammar mistakes
A clean CV helps your strengths shone through.
Not showing your personality
Employers also want to know you!
Your personal statement is your chance to introduce yourself and demonstrate that you are curious, motivated and ready to learn.
Share:
What interests you
What you're working towards
Why you're excited about the opportunity
Be genuine. Authenticity is more memorable than trying to sound impressive.
Key takeaway: your first CV does not have to be perfect
Everyone starts somewhere.
The goal of your first CV isn't perfection; it's opening the door to your first opportunity.
Every application, interview and experience helps you grow in confidence and develop new skills.
At Open Palm, we believe every young person deserves access to opportunities that help them build confidence, explore careers and realise their potential.
Whether it's work experience, career insight days or our WYZ® courses, every opportunity is a chance to learn something new.
Your future starts with taking the first step.
Looking for more career opportunities?
Be sure to start our WYZ® For Work online course, for practical tips, career insights and career opportunities designed to help young people thrive.
