Basic Resume Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
By Career counseling, Job Hunting, Uncategorized

When you are applying for jobs, compiling information for your resume can feel like simply another item on your to-do list. But your resume is likely the first impression you will make on a manager. Resume mistakes could result in your application materials not making it to the next step in the hiring process. 

Misspellings, typos, and a resume that is designed for a position different than the one you are applying for are all errors that will make it difficult for you to get hired. To learn about best practices for your resume and connect with jobs, talk to a staffing expert at Quality Placement Authority. 

Plan Before You Start

Whether you are updating an old resume or starting from scratch, doing a bit of planning before you start can be helpful in sidestepping resume mistakes. You will want to keep the following ideas in mind.

  • Include keywords used in the job listing.
  • Adjust your skills and experience to the posted position.
  • Streamline information so you are sharing what is most important.

Using keywords in your resume is advantageous for a couple of reasons. First off all, some hiring managers use software that scans resumes to see if there are keywords that match the job posting before the resume advances to a human. Additionally, once the materials reach the desk of a hiring manager, they want a candidate that has the specific skills they are seeking.

If you are applying for a range of positions, you need to be sure the resumes you are sending out are targeted for each job. This means your skills and work experience will need to be updated depending on the position you are applying for, resist the urge to cut and paste without carefully reviewing the content. 

And remember, hiring managers are busy people. When there are paragraphs and paragraphs of information, it may simply be too much information to quickly read. Focus on the key information you want to share. To increase readability, consider using bullets and don’t include every job you’ve ever had if your work history goes back a decade or more. 

Proofread to Avoid Resume Mistakes

When you look at application materials over and over, it can be difficult to catch every misspelling and error. But a friend or family member can look at your work with fresh eyes and notice resume mistakes. Ask someone you trust to proofread materials before sending them out.

If you prefer to work with a professional, there are career coaches available or the employment experts at Quality Placement Authority can look over your resume and give you ideas for improvement. 

And lastly, remember to promote yourself! A common resume mistake is to be overly modest. Include awards, promotions, and other sources of recognition.  

Do you need help with your resume? Quality Placement Authority is a full-service staffing and recruiting firm with nationwide service capabilities. Let our experts help you find the best job for your career goals. Connect with Quality Placement Authority today.