Mistakes to Avoid when Writing a Resume
As you write your resume, make sure it does not include any of these common resume mistakes listed below:
Typographic and grammatical errors
Your resume needs to be grammatically perfect. If it is not, employers will read between the lines and draw not-so-flattering conclusions about you. Typographical and grammatical error is capable of damaging your reputation; being that your resume is your first contact with the employer, it is pertinent that you take your time to proofread your resume before submitting it for consideration.
Lacks specifics
Your resume should not just state the obvious to a hiring manager. Employers need to understand what you’ve done and accomplished.
Attempting a generic resume
Whenever you try to develop a generic resume, you almost certainly end up with something employers will toss in the recycle bin. Employers want to feel special and want you to write a resume specifically for them. Because every job is unique, your resume should be designed specifically for every new position applied. Employers expect you to show how and why you are a good fit for the job.
Highlighting duties instead of accomplishments
Your resume needs to show how good you are at your job, but it’s all too easy to slip into listing your responsibilities. One of the most basic resume tips is to go beyond showing what was required and demonstrate how you made a difference at each company, providing specific examples.
Going on too long or cutting things too short
Many people try to squeeze their experiences onto one page because they have heard resumes should not be lengthy. By doing so, job seekers may delete impressive achievements. It is not also advisable to wander on about irrelevant or redundant experiences.
Bad/Poor summary
Many candidates lose their readers right at the beginning, with their career summary. The career summary should portray your experience. Give employers something specific and, more importantly, something that focuses on their needs as well as yours.
No action verbs
Avoid using phrases like “responsible for.” Instead, use action verbs. Not only do these words help to show off your initiative, but they also help punch up the overall tone of your resume.
Leaving off important information
Most job seekers often omit experiences they have gathered from jobs taken to earn some extra money or voluntary placements. However, the soft skills you have gained from these experiences are as vital to employers as experiences from paid jobs.
Visually too busy
If your resume is wall-to-wall text featuring five different fonts, it will most likely give the employer a headache. So show your resume to several other people before sending it out.
Incorrect contact information
Ensure your contact phone number, emails and other contact information provided on your resume is correct.
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