Top Resume Mistakes That Cost You the Job (and How to Fix Them)

Your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer. A strong resume can open doors, but even small mistakes can cost you the job. Many candidates miss opportunities simply because of avoidable resume errors.

Here are the top resume mistakes you should avoid—and how to fix them.

1. Spelling and Grammar Errors

Mistake: Typos and poor grammar make you look careless.
Fix: Always proofread, use spell-check tools, and consider asking someone else to review your resume.

2. Using a Generic Resume

Mistake: Sending the same resume to every job.
Fix: Tailor your resume for each role by highlighting skills and experiences that match the job description.

3. Poor Formatting

Mistake: Cluttered layouts, inconsistent fonts, or walls of text.
Fix: Keep your resume clean, professional, and easy to read. Use bullet points and consistent formatting.

4. Including Irrelevant Information

Mistake: Adding outdated jobs, hobbies, or unrelated skills.
Fix: Focus only on relevant experience and achievements that show your value for the role.

5. Lack of Quantifiable Achievements

Mistake: Listing duties instead of results.
Fix: Use numbers and metrics to show impact, e.g., “Increased sales by 25% in six months.”

6. Too Long or Too Short

Mistake: Submitting a 1-page resume when you have 15 years of experience—or a 5-page document with little substance.
Fix: Stick to 1–2 pages, highlighting the most impactful and recent experiences.

7. Using Clichés and Buzzwords

Mistake: Overusing phrases like “hardworking” or “team player.”
Fix: Show these qualities through specific achievements rather than vague statements.

8. Missing Keywords

Mistake: Not optimizing for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
Fix: Use keywords from the job description to improve your chances of passing automated resume scans.

9. Unprofessional Email Address

Mistake: Using personal or outdated emails (e.g., “cooldude123@…”).
Fix: Create a professional email address using your name.

10. Forgetting Contact Information

Mistake: Missing phone number, email, or LinkedIn profile.
Fix: Double-check that your contact details are correct and updated.

Final Thoughts

Your resume can make or break your job search. By avoiding these common resume mistakes and applying the fixes above, you can increase your chances of landing interviews and securing the job you want.

Remember: a resume isn’t just a list of jobs—it’s your personal marketing tool.