10 Resume Mistakes That Could Be Costing You Job Interviews
Avoiding basic resume mistakes can increase your chances of getting interview calls. Here are ten common errors and how to fix them to improve your job prospects.
Spelling and Grammar Errors Even small spelling or grammar mistakes can make a bad impression on hiring managers. It shows a lack of attention to detail and may suggest carelessness. Always proofread your resume or ask someone else to check it. Tools like Grammarly can help, but a manual check is still important, especially for common errors that software might miss.
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Using a One-Size-Fits-All Resume Sending the same resume for every job does not work. Recruiters can tell if you have not tailored it to the role. A customised resume shows you have read the job description and understand what the employer is looking for. Use the same keywords from the posting and highlight relevant experience only.
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Including Irrelevant Information Adding hobbies, outdated jobs or personal details like age or marital status can distract from your qualifications. Employers are mainly interested in your skills and experience that relate to the role. Keep your resume focused and relevant to the position you are applying for.
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Lack of Clear Structure A messy layout or inconsistent formatting can make your resume hard to read. Hiring managers often skim quickly, so make sure your sections are clearly labelled, the font is easy to read, and information is laid out in a logical order. Use bullet points to break up long text.
Using Cliches and Buzzwords Terms like “hard-working”, “go-getter” or “team player” do not mean much without proof. Instead of listing vague qualities, describe your achievements. For example, say how you helped reduce costs or improved a process. Always back up soft skills with examples.
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Failing to Show Impact with Numbers Recruiters like to see results. Simply listing tasks is not enough. Whenever possible, include numbers that show what you achieved, like “increased sales by 20%” or “trained 15 new staff”. Quantifying your work makes your impact more visible and believable.
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Too Long or Too Short A resume that is too short might look like you lack experience, while one that is too long could overwhelm the reader. For most professionals, 1–2 pages is best. Be concise but complete, include the most important points without unnecessary detail.
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No Keywords for ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) Many companies use software to scan resumes before a human sees them. If your resume does not have the right keywords, it might not get past the system. Look at the job posting and use similar phrases to describe your skills and experience.
Outdated Contact Information You would be surprised how often people forget to update their phone number or email address. If an employer cannot reach you, you will not get the interview. Also, avoid unprofessional email addresses, use something simple and based on your name.
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Not Including a Professional Summary A strong summary at the top of your resume gives the reader a quick idea of who you are and what you bring to the table. Without it, they might miss your most important qualifications. Keep it short, focused, and specific to the job.
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