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Report says achievement-based CVs are best

New research has suggested that omitting a history of workplace achievements on CVs is hindering jobseekers' applications.

The iProfile.org study found that 73 per cent of employers have rejected candidates for interviews due to vague CVs with an absence of relevant accomplishments, Online Recruitment reports.

Meanwhile, over half of recruiters revealed that if applicants sell their existing successes properly, they may be able to demand starting salaries of five per cent higher.

Despite employers' clear preference for achievement-based CVs, iProfile's research showed that most jobseekers favour an approach that lists general responsibilities.

This may be because many are unable to recall past accomplishments when it comes to the crunch, which has been dubbed "achievement amnesia".

Karl Gregory, a CV specialist at the website, said: "Addressing this issue could significantly boost people's chances of getting through to the interview stage, as well as getting the salary they deserve."

The head of public policy at the Recruitment and Employment Confederation Anne Fairweather recently advised that candidates should avoid lying or leaving employment gaps unaccounted for on their job applications.