CV Submission Checklist: Your Guide to Getting Your CV Noticed for the Right Reasons

You’ve finally found the perfect job opportunity, and now it’s time to send your CV. Great! But here’s the truth: this is the point where many people miss it.

Submitting your CV isn’t just about attaching a document and clicking “send.”

It’s a professional handshake in written form. It’s your first impression before you even walk into the interview room. Many graduates lose opportunities, not because they lack skills. Their CVs are poorly written, badly formatted, or sent incorrectly.

Have you ever been rejected after sending your CV? Did you blame unseen enemies or bad luck? Or could it be that your CV submission process is simply at fault? This checklist will help you avoid common mistakes and send out a CV that truly highlights your best qualities.

Common CV Writing Mistakes ❌

• Overloading with unnecessary personal details (marital status, religion, political views).
• Using “one-size-fits-all” CVs for every application.
• Using casual email addresses (e.g., babe4lyf@gmail.com).
• Including outdated or irrelevant skills.
• Poor formatting — inconsistent spacing, misaligned text, too many colors.

Before Writing Your CV

• Identify your target role – Tailor your CV to the specific job or industry.
• Research keywords – Many companies use ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Using keywords from the job description boosts your chances of being shortlisted.
• Gather all relevant information – Dates, achievements, references, and portfolio links should be ready before you start writing.

While Writing Your CV

• Use a clear, professional font (Calibri, Arial, Times New Roman, 10–12pt).
• Keep your CV to 1–2 pages for recent graduates; 2–3 pages for experienced professionals.
• Begin with a brief professional summary, not an autobiography.
• List experience in reverse chronological order.
• Include measurable achievements (e.g., “Increased social media engagement by 45%” vs. “Managed social media”).
• Proofread for spelling and grammar; errors are a quick turn-off.

Before Submitting Your CV

• File format – PDF is safest to maintain formatting unless otherwise specified.
• File name – Use “Name_Position” (e.g., BerylEhondor_CommunicationsDirector.pdf), not “CV latest final (2).pdf.”
• Cover letter – Customize for each role; never send just a CV unless the job post requests it.
• Attachment check – Confirm you’ve attached the CV before sending. Double-check.
• Subject line – Be clear and professional: Application – CommunicationsDirector– Beryl Ehondor.

Best Practices for Sending CVs

• Follow the instructions in the job ad exactly (format, subject line, deadline).
• Avoid mass-sending your CV without customizing. Recruiters recognize generic applications instantly.
• Send during business hours if possible, because applications sent at 3 a.m. might get buried.
• Keep a record of where and when you sent each CV for follow-up.

Common CV Submission Mistakes🚫

• Wrong file type (sending .pages or .odt instead of PDF/Word).
• Ignoring the application email format requested.
• Sending from unprofessional email addresses.
• Failing to include contact details on the CV itself.
• Sending oversized files (over 2–5 MB).

A great CV doesn’t guarantee a job, but it guarantees you’re in the race. Employers shortlist from what they see on paper first, so make sure that the paper shows excellence. Treat every CV you send as if it’s your only chance to speak for yourself.

And when these tips land you that interview, remember to share the good news.

Best wishes,

-Dr. Beryl