Resume Mistakes

Resume mistakes are costly, so you want to pay full attention whenever you're creating one for a job application.  When a company views your resume, they decide if they want to invite you for an interview or not. The goal of creating a resume is to present your skills most truthfully and appealingly to your potential employer. If an employer has to call your attention to an error on your resume, I'm sorry, that's a bad sign.

What if you have excellent skills and experience that are not adequately communicated on your resume? The chances that you will be considered by any organization are low. If you have taken time to craft a resume for your job search, there is no harm in double-checking; please be on the lookout for the following mistakes.

A Photo? No!

If you think your employer should see what you look like, there are other ways to do it but not a photo in your resume. While most employers can be partial in the hiring process, others consider the idea unprofessional. There is a lot for your employers to see on your resume already, and you don't want them to be distracted because your photo is sitting in a corner of the document. So, your application might not be considered if you submitted a job application with your photo attached to the resume.

Also, many companies use the Applicant Tracking System to screen job applicants. It's most likely your resume doesn't make it through the process of ATS standards If you have a resume that includes your picture but yet to apply for a job, this is a good time to remove it so that the goal of applying for a job is achieved.

Not Pushing Skills and Experience Related to the Job Position

If there is any advice you should take seriously about your resume, it's tailoring it right. Recruiters want to see your resume to be sure you have the right skills and experience for the job. Submitting a resume with unrelated experience may convince the recruiter that you're not fit for the job. Not adding experience related to the job role is a resume mistake you should avoid at any rate. When creating a resume, look out for the responsibilities highlighted for the job role, and also take note of specific requirements. Match every of your resume content to the job description, this way, you're safe. You can do a review over and over to be sure you've included only the right experience. 

You're Staying in the Commonplace 

Employers prefer job candidates that can stand out. That is why you should refrain from using the cliche words you find on every other resume. Many will not consider this a resume mistake, but it is. Examples of these cliches include:

• Hardworking
• Result oriented
• Good communication skills
• Organizational skills
• Team player
• Go-getter
• Passionate

Avoid padding your resume with these cliches, be original. When drafting your resume, eliminate unnecessary buzzwords, and remember that you want to be different. This is an excellent step to getting you to an interview.

Wrong Contact Information 

You're usually very confident and don't think you can make this resume mistake. However, you would be surprised that the mistake can be as little as replacing the number 8 with the number 0 in your contact number. Yes, it can be an oversight, so you should check again before submitting your resume. It's not good that you're qualified for a job, but your recruiter cannot reach you.

Not Paying Attention to Keywords 

According to James Hu, one common resume mistake is not being found by the recruiter because you didn't include keywords. Resume keywords are essential to help your recruiter notice your resume. So, could you include keywords that resonate with the job description?  Also, the right keywords help you beat ATS, the system scans and identifies the keywords to rank you for the job application.

Including Job Experience of less than a year

Sometimes, putting in job experience of less than 1 year can pull you off as one who needs more experience. It can also send a message to your recruiter that you might need to be committed. SEO manager Jonathan Poston said, "A common resume mistake is listing jobs that didn't last up to 1 year in a row; one will be perceived as a "jumper." 

Improper Use of Fonts

Inconsistent use of fonts can make your resume look unprofessional. Your font type and size influence the readability of your resume, so you should include fonts that are ATS-friendly and also easy to read.

Using the Wrong Resume Format

It's easy for the recruiter to notice that your resume is in the wrong format. It's most likely the first thing he/she will notice when he picks up your resume. To ensure that you're using the proper format, check through these 3 types of resume formats you can use:

• Chronological Format - With this format, you start by outlining your work history and putting your most recent experience first. So, if you already have so much experience, this resume is for you, unlike someone just starting a career.
• Functional Format - This format works well for job seekers who mainly change careers. It allows you to highlight your skills and achievements more than your experience. The functional format is handy for job seekers with limited experience or gaps in their employment dates.
• Combined Format - This format allows you to mix the features from the chronological and functional formats. You can list your skills and qualifications first, then follow with your chronological work history.

Finally

Making resume mistakes can cost you a desired job. Before sending off your resume for any application process, double-check to make sure there are no errors. Your resume gives your recruiter the first impression of you, and you should create a good one.