10 things to remove from your contractor CV
When it comes to securing your next contract, your CV is your calling card. A sharp, clean CV can open doors, while a cluttered or confusing one may leave them firmly shut.
So, what should you leave out? Here’s a rundown of 10 things to remove from your contracting CV to make it stand out for all the right reasons.
1. Too much information
It’s tempting to showcase every single project you’ve ever worked on, but resist the urge. Keep it concise, highlighting the most relevant experience for the role you’re applying for. Hiring managers don’t have time to sift through pages of unnecessary details.
2. Your age
In most cases, your age is irrelevant to your ability to do the job. Employers are more interested in your skills and experience, so keep it professional and omit your birth date to avoid any unconscious bias.
3. Inaccuracies or untruths
It might seem harmless to exaggerate your experience, but if you get caught out, it can damage your reputation in the long run. Stick to the facts—if you’re a good fit, your skills will speak for themselves.
4. Detailed personal information
Leave out specifics like your marital status, full address, or the names of your pets! Employers don’t need to know personal details that have no bearing on your professional abilities. Simply stating your city or region is often enough.
5. Negative comments
Avoid venting about previous roles or employers on your CV. Focus on what you achieved, rather than what went wrong. A positive tone will keep your CV professional and engaging.
6. Walls of text
Your CV should be easy to skim. Huge blocks of text are overwhelming and likely to be skipped. Use bullet points to break up information, ensuring that key points are easily digestible at a glance.
7. Details about your hobbies
Unless your hobbies directly relate to the role, they’re not relevant. Employers care more about your professional experience than your weekend park run. Focus on what matters—your skills and the value you bring to the role.
8. Passive language
Phrases like “I was responsible for” or “I helped with” can make you sound less proactive. Use dynamic, action-driven language like “Led a team” or “Implemented a new system” to demonstrate your impact.
9. Hard-to-read text or fonts
Stick to simple, professional fonts like Arial or Calibri. Avoid using overly stylized fonts or tiny text sizes. Your CV should be easy to read, not a puzzle to decipher.
10. Unnecessary extras
Photos, personal logos, or unexceptional academic results can clutter your CV and distract from the important stuff. Keep it focused on what makes you the best candidate for the role.
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Let’s just say a clean, well-structured CV is far more appealing to potential employers than a cluttered one. By removing unnecessary or irrelevant details, you’ll ensure that the focus stays on your skills, experience, and value to the client. Click here for more tips to help your contracting CV stand out form the crowd.
Looking for a new assignment?
If your current contract is ending or has already ended, the Liquid Friday app can help you find your next assignment. Just indicate in the app that you’re seeking work, and we’ll flag this with your recruitment agency. They’ll start matching you with new opportunities right away—so you can get back to doing what you do best!