6 mistakes to avoid when writing a resume

Certain elements you add to your resume can give potential employers a bad first impression of you. This will be very disadvantageous for your job search. You don’t want to spend hours on a job application only to be rejected due to a mistake on your resume. Today, we will discuss six mistakes to avoid when writing your resume.

1. Mistake #1: Being Too Generic

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when writing a resume is to be generic. You are not writing a document that can be used to describe five other candidates. You are writing a resume that is unique to you. Every little detail that goes into your resume must be specific to yourself. Never apply for a job with a generic resume. Always send a tailored resume that is customized to the specific job you are applying for.

2. Mistake #2: Focusing on Job Descriptions Instead of Achievements

Focusing on job duties instead of professional achievements is another common resume mistake we notice job seekers making. You are not keeping a detailed record of all the job duties you performed at your previous jobs. You are writing a concise resume that mentions impressive professional achievements in each of your past roles, portraying you as the ideal candidate for the open position. Use quantifiable results to make your achievements more compelling on your resume.

3. Mistake #3: Using Jargon and Acronyms

You have to have a certain amount of industry-specific terms on your resume. However, the overuse of industrial jargon and acronyms can get your resume easily disqualified. No matter which field you work in, your resume will be first evaluated by an HR professional. You don’t want to overthrow the balance of the hiring manager by bombarding them with unfamiliar lingo. Use plain language to describe your experience. However, incorporate the right keywords into your resume.

4. Mistake #4: Having Spelling and Grammar Errors

Spelling and grammar errors can make you look unprofessional and careless. You should proofread your resume several times before submitting it for a job application. Don’t proofread your resume as soon as you finish writing it. Give it an hour or two, or a full day. This will ensure that you proofread the document with a fresh perspective and spot more errors. You can also ask a friend or family member to take a look at your resume. Ask them to point out any mistakes they spot.

5. Mistake #5: Including Irrelevant Information

Did you know that your resume must mention only the relevant professional details? Including irrelevant information on your resume can get you rejected from the competition faster than you can even say “irrelevant.” A potential employer only needs to know the most important details about your career, skills, and experience. Leave out any information that is unrelated to the job, such as job entries older than 15 years, unrelated job titles, your full address, and your religion.

6. Mistake #6: Not Tailoring Your Resume to the Job Description

Not tailoring your resume to the job description is one of the most unfortunate resume mistakes you could make. Did you know that 90% of employers use applicant tracking systems to filter candidates? This software searches for a given set of keywords on resumes. If your resume fails to mention the right keywords at the right frequency, it will be rejected. The reason 75% of job seekers fail is because they don’t tailor their resumes for each job. Do your homework on the employer and find out their mission and values. This information will help you tailor your resume to suit their preferences.