Not everyone is a professional writer. Resumes are key to placing your best foot forward but can be challenging. Therefore, there are several common resume mistakes that should be avoided when crafting yours.
Spelling and grammar mistakes
While this may seem obvious, you would be surprised at how often it happens. Improper spelling or grammar mistakes will likely ensure that your resume will be tossed in the “no thank you” pile. Consider this: if potential employers feel that you cannot take the time to edit your resume, how high are the chances they will feel confident in your attention to detail and care for your work? Always proofread your resume prior to it being submitted.
Generalized statements
For many reasons, it is important to be as specific as possible when stating your skills and accomplishments. Generalized information should always be backed up with specific details of past recognitions and achievements. We suggest you keep track of your successes by creating an ongoing list. Be specific and offer examples of projects or tasks you took on, and what the result was for the organization or client.
Keep in mind that hobbies and interests can be included, but they should apply accordingly to the position for which you are applying for. Ultimately, your resume should clearly communicate your qualifications, and set you apart from the competition.
Distracting graphics and hard to read fonts
While it is tempting to vamp up your resume with fancy graphics, and unique font choices, your resume is not the time to test out new tactics! Loading graphics into a resume can become visually distracting and can in many cases be rejected on sight alone. Also, all that space being used for graphics could be better used for more text to market you more effectively. Unusual formatting can throw the technology for a loop when ranking your resume.
The same goes for font choice. If a font is difficult to read, not only do you run the risk of turning off the hiring manager immediately, but some fonts are also difficult for ATS software to process. Consider classic fonts such as: Times New Roman, Georgia, Helvetica, Arial, Calibri, and Cambria. It is best to keep your resume professional, organized, and easy to read.
At Resumes with Results, we provide our clients with a superior, skills-based resume. Our job is to craft a resume that speaks to your qualifications while ensuring it will pass the scrutiny of ATS software. Do not let these common mistakes take you out of the running for your dream job! Contact our team today.