Errors in a resume are common, but the good news is that they are simple to fix. Avoid using ambiguous language, make sure your resume is optimized for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), and tailor it to the industry you’re pursuing if you want to stand out in the U.S. employment market.
Consider your resume as more than just a summary of your previous employment. It’s a technique for personal marketing that emphasizes your unique advantages and contributions.
Do you want to increase your chances of landing a job? Start by checking your resume for typical errors. After that, ensure it passes the recruiting algorithms using our ATS checklist. You could be closer than you think to receiving your next job offer!
In this guide, we’ll break down the most common resume mistakes, share actionable fixes, and reveal how to format your resume for ATS compatibility. Let’s turn your resume from a liability into your greatest career asset.
7 Common Resume Mistakes That Are Hurting Your Chances Prospects
1. Grammatical and typographical errors
The Reason It’s an Issue: One error might make you think you are irresponsible. These mistakes are frequently used by hiring managers to swiftly exclude applicants.
Fix: Make use of programs like Hemingway Editor or Grammarly. Have a buddy proofread it for you.
2. General, Imprecise Wording
An illustration of an error would be “Responsible for managing projects.”
Correction: “Led a cross-functional team to deliver 15+ client projects 20% under budget in 2025.”
Why It Works: Metrics and specificity highlight your influence.
3. Outdated section errors to steer clear of
“References Upon Request” (squanders space).
Your home address is included (privacy risk).
Remember, your resume is a powerful marketing tool that showcases your qualifications and skills effectively.
A “Skills” or “Certifications” section should be used instead.
4. Ignoring the requirements of the ATS
Because they are not structured for ATS, many resumes are rejected. In Section 3, we’ll examine this in more detail.
5. Resumes That Are One Size Fits All
Sending the same CV for each job is the issue.
Fix: Adjust accomplishments and keywords to better align with the job description.
6. Being Overloaded with Unrelated Data
Example: If you’re a professional in the middle of your career, list all of the jobs you’ve held since high school.
Fix: Pay attention to the previous ten to fifteen years of experience.
7. Bad DesignDecisions Errors:
Employing typefaces that are too imaginative (like Comic Sans).
messy designs with erratic bullet points.
Fix: Adhere to neat, expert templates.
How to Format a Resume for ATS: Avoid These 7 Critical Errors
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) scan resumes for keywords and structure. If your resume isn’t optimised, even qualified candidates get filtered out. Here’s how to fix it:
1. Using Headers or Footers
Why It Fails: ATS often can’t read text in headers/footers.
Fix: Place contact information directly in the body.
2. Graphics, Tables, or Charts
Problem: ATS struggles to parse visual elements.
Fix: Use simple bullet points and text.
3. Incorrect File Types
Mistake: Saving as a .PNG or .PAGES file.
Fix: Always use .PDF or .DOCX.
4. Missing Keywords
Example: If the job posting requires “SEO optimisation,” include that exact phrase.
Pro Tip: Mirror the language in the job description.
5. Unconventional Section Titles
Mistake: Labelling your work history as “Where I’ve Been.”
Fix: Use standard headers like “Work Experience” or “Professional History.”
6. Ignoring Job Titles
ATS Hack: If you’re applying for a “Marketing Manager” role, ensure your current title matches or is adjacent (e.g., “Senior Marketing Coordinator”).
Why It Matters: ATS prioritizes hard skills (e.g., “Python,” “Google Analytics”).
Fix: Add a “Key Skills” section near the top.
Industry-Specific Resume Mistakes (U.S. Job Market)
1. Tech Resumes
Mistake: Listing every programming language you’ve ever dabbled in.
Fix: Highlight expertise in 3–5 core languages/tools.
2. Healthcare Resumes
Mistake: Forgetting to include licenses or certifications (e.g., RN, CPR).
Fix: Add a “Licenses & Certifications” section.
3. Finance Resumes
Mistake: Being too vague about quantifiable results.
Fix: Use numbers: “Increased portfolio ROI by 12% in Q1 2025.”
Conclusion
Errors on resumes are simple to create and simple to correct. You will stand out in the U.S. job market if you steer clear of ambiguous wording, optimise applicant tracking systems, and customise your resume for your sector. Keep in mind that your resume is a marketing tool that highlights your special qualities, not just a list of employment.
Are you prepared to act? Use our ATS checklist to make sure you’re prepared for the hiring algorithms after checking your resume for the aforementioned mistakes. You might be surprised to learn how near your next employment offer is!
FAQs About Resume Mistakes
How long should my resume be?
1 page for < 10 years of experience, 2 pages for executives or technical roles.
Should I explain employment gaps?
Briefly address gaps in your cover letter or resume summary (e.g., “Career break to care for family”).
Can I use colour on my resume?
Subtle accents are okay but avoid neon colours. Stick to black, grey, or navy.
Do I need to include references?
No—save space for more critical content. Prepare a separate document if requested.
How do I know if my resume is ATS-friendly?
Test it with free tools like Jobscan or ResumeWorded.
