- Spelling and Grammar Errors
Nothing screams “lack of attention to detail” like a resume riddled with typos and grammatical mistakes. Employers want to hire careful and thorough professionals, so ensure you proofread your resume multiple times. Use spell-check tools like Grammarly, but don’t rely on them entirely. Reading your resume out loud or having a friend review it can also help spot mistakes.
- Using a Generic Resume
One-size-fits-all doesn’t work for resumes. Tailor your resume for each job application by highlighting the skills and experiences most relevant to the position. Recruiters can tell when you’ve just copy-pasted the same resume everywhere and it doesn’t make a great impression. Research the company and job description, then customize your resume accordingly.
- Overly Long or Too Short Resume
Finding the sweet spot is key. A resume that’s too long (more than two pages) might overwhelm recruiters, while a one-liner summary won’t showcase your experience. One page is usually sufficient for entry-level positions, while professionals with years of experience can extend to two pages. Stick to a concise format with straightforward, impactful content highlighting your most significant accomplishments.
- Poor Formatting and Readability
If your resume is difficult to read, it won’t get read. Use clear headings, bullet points, and a consistent font (such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman) to ensure readability. Avoid cluttered layouts, tiny font sizes, or overly fancy designs—simplicity and professionalism go a long way. Ensure your margins and spacing are balanced so the document looks neat and well-structured.
- Including Irrelevant Information
Your high school hobbies and unrelated part-time jobs from a decade ago? Probably not necessary. Focus on skills and experiences that align with the job you’re applying for. Every line on your resume should add value and demonstrate your qualifications. Remove outdated roles or personal details that don’t contribute to your job application.
- Lack of Keywords for ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems)
Many companies use ATS software to scan resumes before a human even looks at them. If your resume lacks relevant keywords from the job description, it might never reach the hiring manager’s desk. Incorporate key terms related to the role naturally within your resume, especially in the skills and experience sections, to ensure you pass the initial screening.
- Failing to Quantify Achievements
“Managed a team” sounds decent, but “Led a team of 10 and increased productivity by 30%” sounds way more impressive. Whenever possible, use numbers and results to showcase your accomplishments—it makes your contributions tangible. Employers love to see concrete evidence of your impact, whether it’s revenue growth, cost savings, or process improvements.
- Unprofessional Email Address
If you’re still using that embarrassing email from high school (looking at you, "cooldude99@example.com"), it’s time for an upgrade. Stick with something simple and professional, like firstname.lastname@email.com. Using a professional email address reinforces your credibility.
- Exaggeration or False Information
It might be tempting to stretch the truth, but honesty is always the best policy. Employers often verify details, and getting caught in a lie can ruin your credibility. Stick to the facts and showcase your real strengths. If you lack experience in a particular area, focus on transferable skills instead of making things up.
- Missing Contact Information or Incorrect Details
You’d be surprised how often people forget to include their phone number or email—or worse, list outdated information. Double-check that your contact details are accurate and up to date so recruiters can actually reach you. Also, consider adding your LinkedIn profile if it’s well-optimized.
- Using Too Many Buzzwords
While it’s good to sound professional, overloading your resume with clichés like “results-driven” or “team player” can make it seem generic. Instead, show these qualities through concrete examples of your work. Demonstrate your skills rather than just stating them.
- Not Highlighting Transferable Skills
If you’re switching industries or roles, failing to highlight transferable skills can be a missed opportunity. Focus on how your past experience applies to the new role, even if it’s in a different field. Use specific examples of projects or tasks that demonstrate relevant abilities.
- Leaving Out Volunteer or Side Projects
If you have relevant volunteer experience or side projects, don’t leave them out! They can showcase valuable skills and initiative, especially if you’re early in your career or switching fields. Employers appreciate candidates who take the initiative to develop their skills outside of traditional work settings.
- Not Updating Your Resume Regularly
Your resume isn’t a one-and-done document. Keep it updated with your latest experiences, achievements, and skills. You never know when an opportunity might come knocking. Set a reminder to review and refresh your resume every few months to ensure it reflects your most recent work and accomplishments.
- Ignoring the Cover Letter
While not technically part of your resume, a well-crafted cover letter can make a huge difference. Don’t just repeat your resume—use it to tell your story and explain why you’re the perfect fit for the job. Personalize it for each application and highlight what makes you a unique candidate.
The Takeaway
Your resume is your first impression, so make it count! A strong, error-free resume that is well-structured and tailored to the job you’re applying for can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview. By avoiding these common mistakes, you demonstrate professionalism, attention to detail, and a genuine interest in the role.
Remember, your resume is a living document—it should evolve as your career progresses. Regularly update it with new skills, achievements, and experiences to ensure it remains relevant. Taking the time to craft a compelling and polished resume can make all the difference in standing out from the competition.
Now, refresh your resume and check out our job board with dozens of remote positions for candidates in Latin America.
