Common Mistakes You Put on Your Resume That Can Cost You a Job

Your resume is the first thing a hiring manager sees when they're looking for new employees. If you want to make sure it doesn't end up in the trash before they even get to know you, there are a few mistakes you need to avoid at all costs.

Here are the most common mistakes people make on their resumes—and how to avoid them.

1. References are Stated on the Resume.

If you're asked for references on a job application, list them separately on a sheet of paper. It's better not to include them on your resume, as they will only make it look longer and like you have less experience.

2. The Whole Resume is Written in Full Sentences.

The first thing most hiring managers do when they see a resume is skim it. If yours is written in full sentences, they'll miss out on important information about you and your skills. Instead, use bullet points to highlight your accomplishments and qualifications for the position.

3. The Words "Duties and Responsibilities."

The word "duties" is a turn-off for hiring managers because it makes you sound like a robot. Instead, write out your accomplishments and qualifications in short bullet points highlighting what you did and how it helped the organization. You can also use phrases like "responsibilities included" or "I was responsible for . . .".

4. You Added Your Objective

Hiring managers don't need to know what you want out of a job. Instead, they want to see how you can help them solve their problems and grow their business. Use your resume to show how your skill set and experience will benefit the company—not just by listing everything you want to do there.

5. Grammatical Errors

Even a single spelling or grammatical error can make you look unprofessional. It's not just about getting the right words on paper; it's also about making sure they're spelled correctly and in the right order. Ask someone to look over your resume before you submit it.

6. Unprofessional E-mail Address

It's essential to use a professional e-mail address when applying for jobs. If your current e-mail address is already associated with an online identity, you don't want prospective employers to see it, create a new account and forward it to the new one.

7. It Includes a Picture.

Although some employers may request a picture, it's usually only for jobs requiring customer interaction. It can include positions in retail, sales, or customer service. If you're applying for a place that doesn't require face-to-face contact with clients, leave the photo off your resume.

8. It Is Too Personal.

While letting your personality shine through is okay, you don't want your resume to read like a personal blog. Avoid including personal information, such as hobbies or interests, unless they are directly related to the position you're applying for.

Conclusion

Resumes are an essential tool in your job search. They help you present the best possible version of yourself to employers and ensure that your qualifications are clearly presented. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your resume avoids getting tossed aside in favour of someone else's more professional-looking document.

You're in control of your own resume destiny. Our professional writing team, Edit-ting, will write your resume for you, so you can edit it and fine-tune it to be as perfect as possible. Get in touch with us today and let us help you get a job!