Top 10 Most Common Resume Mistakes That Could Cost You The Job

Jul 22, 2013 2 Min Read
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10 Say no to odd fonts

Cheesy fonts just scream “I don’t know what I’m doing” to your future employer. Jokerman, Papyrus and Comic Sans are not meant for a resume. These fonts are for festive purposes only. Use fonts like Times Roman and Arial instead.

9 Overly-decorated resume

When you display your resume in an unconventional manner, the employer may assume that the reason why you decorate your resume with ribbons, unnecessary binding and much more is that you are unprofessional. Sometimes being unconventional does not help you to land a job.

8 Too many details

Your resume should only be between one and two pages. The goal is to make your resume short, yet readable for the employer. List only your selling points that are applicable for the job. Leave out details that are not relevant to the job at hand.

7 No structure

A well-written resume leaves a good impression on the employer. It shows attention to detail and can powerfully show the value that you can bring to the company. Be sure that your resume is systematic and rational.

6 Generic resume

It may be easier to send the same resume for every job that you are applying for. But a generic resume won’t show the hiring manager that you are the perfect candidate for the company. Match your achievements with the job’s requirements. Avoid the one-size-fits-all resume.

5 Weird hobbies

Do not put strange hobbies or interests on your resume. There are better ways to show your individuality. You will not get hired if those hobbies have a negative impression to the employer.

4 Incorrect contact details

Be sure your contact details are written correctly. You may think you are not getting phone calls because you are not eligible, but there’s also a possibility that your contact information are wrongly written. Triple-check your resume to ensure that it is perfect.

3 Immature email address

Inappropriate or immature email addresses are a big turn off for employers. They indicate lack of maturity and discipline. Create an email address that is professional to put on your resume. First impressions are very crucial.

2 Distracting information

There is a difference between useful information and too much information. Including certain details may set you apart from other candidates but if it is not relevant to the job you’re applying for, it will become a distraction instead of a positive addition to your resume.

1 Exaggeration and lies

Exaggerating or lying in your resume would definitely bring short and long-term consequences to your career. You are at risk of losing honour and trust. It is never a choice to lie in your resume. The stakes are high when you do that.

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This article is published by the editors of Leaderonomics.com with the consent of the guest author. 

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