5 Biggest Resume Mistakes to Avoid When Looking for Work

April 28 2020 - Approximately 40% of hiring managers scan a resume for less than a minute. Another 25%, however, spend less than 30 seconds.

During those valuable seconds, hiring managers know exactly what to look for. When their eyes snag on a mistake, they move on to the next applicant.

You need to make the most of every second you have their attention! Otherwise, your resume could end up in the rejection pile.

Here are the five biggest resume mistakes you need to avoid. By reviewing your resume for these errors, you can improve your chances of getting your dream job.

Avoid the rejection pile with these five tips!

1. Spelling and Grammar

You might think editing your resume for grammar and spelling mistakes sounds like a no-brainer. However, many people miss this obvious step before they send out their applications. For many hiring managers, simple mistakes are a deal-breaker.

If you make these simple mistakes on your resume, how likely are you to make the same mistakes in a professional setting?

Have someone review your resume for you before you apply for a job. You can also use free tools like Grammarly to search for grammar and spelling mistakes. Reviewing your resume before you send it will also help you avoid some of the biggest resume mistakes mentioned below.

2. Inaccurate or Outdated Info

While you're reviewing your resume for errors, don't forget to check your contact information. After all, a recruiter will have a difficult time reaching out if your phone number or email isn't correct.

Make sure you're using a professional email address as well. If the information you've added is irrelevant to the job, cut it out.

Avoid putting your contact information in a document's header space. Many applicant tracking systems can't read that space. Instead, format your resume with these tracking bots in mind.

3. Generalizing Statements

Instead of making general claims about your accomplishment, prove yourself with quantifiable results. Show how much the business grew with your help. Mention increased profits, return on investment numbers, and more.

General statements that don't apply to the job listing will make your application look lazy.

4. Lacking Professionalism

The best  Adobe Express resume templates speak to the applicant's professionalism. Make sure your resume looks and sounds professional.

Make sure the design isn't too elaborate. Instead, stick to a clean design that makes it easy for hiring managers to scan the information you've provided. If they have to dig around for the information they need, they'll keep looking.

5. Annoying Keyword Stuffing

Applicant tracking systems look for specific keywords within each application. Too many buzzwords, however, can make your resume sound awkward.

Avoid repetitive words and phrases. Instead, customize your resume for the job you're applying for.

Every corporate job opening attracts about 250 applicants. Hiring managers have criteria they follow to narrow that number down. Many hiring managers look for specific keywords that fit their dream applicant.

Don't Miss the Mark: Avoid the 5 Biggest Resume Mistakes You Can Make

Don't miss out on your dream job! Instead, avoid the five biggest resume mistakes you can make. Set yourself up for success with these tips!

Explore the Jobs and Careers section on this website for more helpful tips!

• More Career Articles