You’ve spent hours polishing your resume, but the interview calls just aren’t coming. What gives? Sometimes, it’s not about your skills — it’s about how your resume looks and reads.
Here are five common resume mistakes that might be holding you back — and how to fix them so you get noticed.
1. Using a Generic Objective Statement
Nobody cares about your “goal to find a challenging role.” Instead, use a summary that highlights what you bring — like your skills and accomplishments.
Fix: Write a quick summary about what makes you a great fit for the job.
2. Too Much Text, No White Space
A wall of text is hard to read. Recruiters skim quickly and may skip your resume if it looks cluttered.
Fix: Use bullet points, short sentences, and clear headings. Keep plenty of space so your resume feels easy on the eyes.
3. Listing Job Duties Instead of Results
Saying “Answered phones and greeted customers” doesn’t show your value. Instead, show impact with numbers or achievements.
Fix: Try this — “Improved customer satisfaction scores by 15% through friendly, efficient service.”
4. Ignoring Keywords
Many companies use software to scan resumes for keywords related to the job description. Missing these means your resume might never be seen by a human.
Fix: Carefully read the job post and sprinkle relevant keywords naturally throughout your resume.
5. Using an Unprofessional Email or Formatting
Emails like “partylady123@gmail.com” or strange fonts/colors can send the wrong message.
Fix: Use a simple, professional email (your name if possible). Keep fonts classic (Arial, Calibri) and formatting clean.
Bonus Tip: Always proofread!
Typos and grammar mistakes look careless and can cost you the job.
Wrap-Up
Your resume is your first impression. Fix these common mistakes and watch your interview invites grow. Remember: it’s about showing your value clearly and professionally.