Maximise Your Interview Chances as a General Practitioner

As a General Practitioner in the UK, your CV is your first impression to potential employers. Many candidates overlook key elements that can significantly reduce their chances of securing an interview. Mistakes in formatting, keyword usage, and content structure can all play a part. To avoid repeated rejections, it's wise to review your CV for these common pitfalls.

Mistake #1 – Poor Formatting

Why this hurts

A cluttered or unprofessional layout can turn off recruiters instantly. They prefer clearly structured CVs that are easy to read.

Example

• Bad: Using multiple font types and sizes.
• Better: A consistent, professional font throughout.

How to fix

• Use standard fonts like Arial or Calibri, and keep font sizes uniform.

Mistake #2 – Irrelevant Information

Why this hurts

Including irrelevant details can distract from your qualifications. Recruiters focus on what is applicable to the role.

Example

• Bad: Listing hobbies unrelated to medicine.
• Better: Highlighting relevant training and certifications.

How to fix

• Tailor your CV content to match the job description and focus on relevant experiences.

Mistake #3 – Lack of Keywords

Why this hurts

Many CVs fail to include crucial keywords that ATS look for, leading to automatic rejections.

Example

• Bad: Describing duties without specific medical terminology.
• Better: Using terms like 'patient management' and 'clinical procedures'.

How to fix

• Incorporate keywords from the job description to enhance ATS compatibility.

Mistake #4 – Overly Lengthy CVs

Why this hurts

Recruiters have limited time to review each CV. Lengthy submissions can lead to crucial information being overlooked.

Example

• Bad: CV exceeding three pages.
• Better: A concise two-page CV.

How to fix

• Focus on relevant experience and keep descriptions succinct.

Mistake #5 – Inadequate Experience Framing

Why this hurts

Failing to clearly outline your responsibilities can make your achievements unclear.

Example

• Bad: 'Worked as a GP.'
• Better: 'Managed a practice with 1000+ patients, focusing on preventative care.'

How to fix

• Quantify your achievements to demonstrate impact.

Mistake #6 – Ignoring Soft Skills

Why this hurts

Technical qualifications are important, but soft skills are equally vital in healthcare.

Example

• Bad: Only listing clinical skills.
• Better: Including skills like communication, empathy, and teamwork.

How to fix

• Highlight both clinical and interpersonal skills relevant to patient care.

Mistake #7 – Vague Job Titles

Why this hurts

Unclear job titles can confuse recruiters about your level of expertise.

Example

• Bad: 'Doctor.'
• Better: 'Senior General Practitioner.'

How to fix

• Be precise in your job titles to reflect your level of experience and responsibility.

Mistake #8 – Lack of Professional Development

Why this hurts

Not mentioning ongoing education can signal stagnation.

Example

• Bad: No mention of courses taken.
• Better: Highlighting relevant courses and certifications.

How to fix

• Include recent professional development to show commitment to the field.

Entry-Level

Entry-level candidates often fail to highlight transferable skills gained through education or internships. They should focus on relevant coursework and volunteer experiences that demonstrate their potential.

Mid-Level

Mid-level practitioners may undervalue their leadership experiences or fail to quantify their impact. Clearly documenting achievements and responsibilities is crucial.

Senior/Lead

Senior candidates need to convey their strategic vision and leadership qualities. Failing to do so can result in a lack of interest from recruiters looking for innovative thinkers.

• Use a clear, professional layout.
• Tailor your CV for each application.
• Include relevant keywords from the job description.
• Limit your CV to two pages.
• Quantify achievements and responsibilities.
• Highlight both technical and soft skills.
• Be specific in job titles.
• Document ongoing professional development.
• Proofread for spelling and grammar errors.
• Consider a professional review from mistakes.cv.