Getting a job in Nigeria is tough — but sometimes, the problem isn’t the job market; it’s your CV. Many job seekers don’t realize that their CVs are rejected before anyone even reads their skills. Here are five major reasons why most CVs don’t get accepted in Nigeria:
1. Poor Formatting and Presentation
Recruiters spend less than 10 seconds on each CV. A cluttered layout, inconsistent fonts, or lack of structure makes your CV hard to read. Always keep it clean, well-organized, and easy to scan.
2. Irrelevant Information
Adding unnecessary details like religion, local government area, or unrelated hobbies can make your CV look outdated. Focus on skills, achievements, and experiences that fit the job role.
3. Copy-and-Paste Templates
Many job seekers use free online CV templates without editing them properly. Recruiters can easily spot these and see them as lazy efforts. Customize every CV to match the specific job.
4. Lack of Professionalism
Common mistakes like unprofessional email addresses (e.g., coolboy123@gmail.com), spelling errors, or casual language instantly turn recruiters off. Always proofread and use a professional tone.
5. No Evidence of Results
Employers want proof of impact, not just job titles. Instead of writing “Worked as a sales officer,” say “Increased monthly sales by 35% through targeted marketing.” Numbers make you stand out.
Final Tip:
Your CV is your first impression — make it look like you’re serious about the role. Tailor it, polish it, and let it sell your value clearly.