It's all too easy to fall into the trap of just dashing off a CV without too much thought, especially when you have 15 jobs to apply for in half an hour of free time.

But sending out a stock CV without proper attention to layout, spelling or a level of detail that's tailored to the job in question can cost you that precious first interview in one swift click of a delete key.

New research has indicated that employers spend just 8.8 seconds on average reviewing each CV they receive; an incredibly short window of time in which to make a good impression.

The survey of 500 UK organisations by the National Citizen Service (published in the Independent) also highlights the top 10 no-nos that are most likely to land your résumé on the slush pile.

Take a look at what these common gaffes are and how to avoid them, below, along with tips on key questions that will help nail you the job - no matter what it is - if you are lucky enough to get to interview stage.

The top 10 most common CV mistakes and how to avoid them, plus key questions to ask at interview