TOO many people are missing out on their dream job because their CVs simply aren't up to scratch.

That's the warning from Manchester-based employment agency Connections.

Jonathan Dobkin said: "CVs are relatively straightforward things to write, but unfortunately they're just as easy to get wrong."

A few tips when compiling a CV is not to put in the fact you may have been a head boy or girl or chief Scout or Guide unless they are relevant to the job and keep the CV to a maximum of two sides of A4 and use spot colours on cream paper to make what you're saying stand out.

An unbelievable 35 per cent of people don't put their contact details on their CV anywhere.

At the end of the CV, don't simply list a string of hobbies in the hope of appearing to have a "well rounded" personality. Tell the truth because you could get caught out at the interview.

Don't mark the envelope for the "managing director" or "personnel department". This looks impersonal. Ring them first and get the name and position of the person the CV should be sent to.