Editing and proofreading CV UK before job application

CV Editing Tips UK: How to Proofread & Submit in 2025

Why Editing Is Just as Important as Writing

Once you’re happy with your CV draft, don’t rush to send it off. Editing is where good CVs become excellent CVs.

Recruiters consistently say that sloppiness is one of the biggest turn-offs in applications. Even if you’re applying for a non-writing role, a poorly edited CV suggests:

  • Lack of attention to detail

  • Carelessness under pressure

  • A failure to take pride in your work

Any of the following can instantly land your CV in the “no” pile:

  • Different fonts, font colours, or sizes

  • Inconsistent spacing between sections

  • Misaligned dates or bullet points

  • Grammar and punctuation mistakes

  • Spelling errors

  • Formatting gimmicks (graphics, logos, unnecessary colours)

Think of your CV as your first impression in the boardroom. You’d never walk into an interview with a coffee stain on your suit — sloppy formatting or grammar creates the same effect on paper.

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How to Edit Your CV Like a Pro

Editing isn’t just running a spell-check. It’s about reviewing your CV with the same sharp eye that a recruiter will. Here’s how to do it effectively:

  1. Print it out – You’ll spot mistakes more easily on paper than on screen.

  2. Read it aloud – This forces you to slow down and catch awkward phrasing or repetition.

  3. Check consistency – Dates, job titles, headings, and bullet formatting must all match.

  4. Review numbers and metrics – Ensure percentages, figures, and financials are correct and formatted consistently (£ vs GBP, decimals vs commas).

  5. Get a second opinion – Ask a trusted colleague, mentor, or professional CV writer to review. Others will spot things you miss.

What Resources Can Help?

Unfortunately, spell-checkers alone won’t protect you — they often miss homophones (“their” vs “there”) or suggest incorrect fixes.

Here are some reliable resources:

  • Grammarly
    Upload your CV to Grammarly’s free grammar checker. It picks up nuanced spelling, grammar, and phrasing errors that Microsoft Word misses. Install the browser extension to catch mistakes in emails and job applications too.

  • Columbia Law School’s Guide to Commonly Misused Words
    Even experienced executives trip up on words like affect/effect, principal/principle, and your/you’re. Use this guide to double-check usage.

  • HBR Guide to Better Business Writing
    Business writing requires brevity and clarity. Harvard Business Review’s guide is an excellent resource to help you strip out fluff, sharpen your points, and make your CV more persuasive. These skills also carry over into your work emails and board reports.

How Should I Submit My CV?

Once you’ve perfected your CV, it’s time to submit. The format you choose matters:

  • Always send your CV as a PDF

    • Formatting remains consistent, no matter what software the recruiter uses.

    • PDFs prevent accidental edits that could introduce errors.

    • Modern ATS systems can easily parse PDF text.

  • Only send Word documents if specifically requested

    • Some internal HR systems ask for Word versions.

    • If you must send Word, double-check formatting after saving, as it may shift across devices.

⚡ Pro Tip: Save your CV as FirstName_LastName_CV.pdf. Recruiters review dozens of files daily, and a clear filename makes you look more organised.

Final Thought

Editing is the difference between a good CV that gets overlooked and a polished CV that commands attention. Take the time to proofread, refine, and present your career story with the same professionalism you’d bring to the boardroom.

A single typo won’t always ruin your chances — but why take the risk when the stakes are this high?

To find out more, visit our website www.cvpilots.co.uk If you have any further questions, you can either book a consultation call with one of our team, or get in touch via email on team@cvpilots.co.uk