Resume Mistakes to Avoid

Typos and grammar errors create a poor first impression. Proofread carefully or use a friend. Generic objectives and summaries that could fit anyone are another mistake—personalize them with our Headline Generator and Summary + Skills tool.

Spelling the company name wrong or addressing the wrong role are surprisingly common mistakes. Double-check every application before hitting submit. These errors suggest you're mass-applying without care, which can hurt your chances.

Listing duties instead of achievements weakens your resume. Use our Achievement Generator to turn responsibilities into impact-focused bullets. Avoid outdated formatting, inconsistent dates, and unprofessional email addresses.

Other common mistakes include: using too many fonts or colors, including irrelevant information (like hobbies unless they apply), leaving gaps unexplained, and using overly long paragraphs. Keep bullet points concise—2–3 lines max. Use consistent verb tense (past for past roles, present for current).

Submitting the same resume to every job is another mistake. Tailoring takes time but improves results. Sending a resume without a cover letter when one is requested can also hurt your chances. Always follow application instructions carefully.

Another pitfall is including too much information. Recruiters don't need your full address, marital status, or photo (unless requested in your region). Focus on what's relevant to the job. Less can be more when every line adds value. Every sentence should answer the question: why does the employer need to know this? Trim anything that doesn't add value.

Finally, avoid lying or exaggerating. Background checks and reference calls can uncover inaccuracies. Focus on presenting your genuine experience in the strongest possible light.