Steer Clear of These Resume Mistakes

Your resume serves as a gateway to your dream job. It’s important to present yourself in the best light possible to catch the employer’s attention. However, some mistakes can hinder your chances of success. We’ll break down the top five resume mistakes to avoid when creating your resume and some tips on what we think you should do instead.

Cluttered Formatting
A cluttered and disorganised resume is a major turn-off for employers. Keep your resume clean and easy to read by using a simple and professional format. Use clear headings, bullet points, and appropriate spacing to make it more readable.

Tip: Use a resume template to maintain a consistent layout and make sure all sections are well-structured. Choose a legible font and stick to a font size between 10 and 12 points for the body text.

Vague and Generic Language
Avoid using clichés or generic language that doesn’t truly highlight your accomplishments. Phrases like “hardworking team player” or “excellent communication skills” lack specificity and fail to showcase your unique qualities.

Tip: Be specific and use quantifiable achievements to demonstrate your skills. Instead of saying you’re a “team player,” highlight a successful team project you led or mention how your collaboration skills contributed to achieving specific goals.

Lack of Tailoring
Sending the same resume for every job application is a common mistake. Employers want to see that you’re genuinely interested in their company and the specific role you’re applying for.

Tip: Customise your resume for each application. Research the company and job requirements, and align your qualifications and experiences accordingly. This shows your dedication and will increase your chances of getting noticed.

Too Lengthy or Too Short
The length of your resume matters. If it’s too long, employers might lose interest, and if it’s too short, it may not provide enough information to assess your suitability for the role.

Tip: One-page resume is a great idea, especially if you’re a recent graduate or have limited experience. If you have significant experience, a two or three-page resume may be acceptable, but avoid unnecessary details. Focus on the most relevant information.

Neglecting Keywords
Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes for specific keywords related to the job. Neglecting these keywords can cause your resume to get overlooked.

Tip: Tailor your resume with relevant keywords from the job description. Look for common skills and requirements and integrate them naturally into your resume. However, avoid overstuffing your resume with keywords, as it may come across as inauthentic.