Common Resume Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Common resume mistakes you should avoid at all costs during your job search

You’ve submitted your resume time and time again, but you just can’t seem to land an interview. So what is the problem? It could be your resume. Sure things might look good to you, but maybe you’re missing some very critical mistakes. Here are a few the most common resume mistakes that should be avoided:

1. Long-winded paragraphs

Long paragraphs are great for a research paper. They aren’t great for resumes. Employers are bombarded with common resume mistakes. They don’t have time to read each one thoroughly. So instead of writing long paragraphs about each of the jobs you’ve held, use bullet points to draw attention to the duties you performed.

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2. Sending generic resumes to potential employers

Resumes aren’t like those Magic Gloves that you can buy from the drug stores. One size doesn’t fit all. The resume that you used for your last job might not work for a new job opportunity. Before you submit your resume, take the time to tailor your resume to the position for which you are applying. Employers want to see why you are the best fit for the position. You can clearly demonstrate this by pointing out relevant skills by avoiding this common resume mistake.

3. Using the wrong fonts

Again, employers might have to look at a large number of resumes. The last thing they want to read is flowery fonts or fonts that are way too small. Stick with fonts that are easy to read and make sure the font you use is no smaller than 10 points. This is considered to be huge red flag and a common resume mistake job seekers make often

4. Typos

You might have the right experience for the job, but an employer might not be able to focus on that if your resume is filled with typos. When it’s time to check your resume, don’t just rely on your computer’s spelling and grammar check function. Have someone else look it over before you submit it. They can probably catch mistakes you might have missed. If you know someone who is a grammar whiz, have them look over your resume as well. Then you can feel confident about your resume instead of feeling embarrassed later.

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