5 Common Mistakes to Avoid on a Resume!

We are all familiar with the classic steps of a job search: sending a resume and cover letter, then taking tests and attending interviews. Listed this way, the process seems simple enough for everyone to have a chance at quickly securing a job. However, it is crucial to pay attention to several aspects when writing a resume, as it is the first impression presented to the recruiter. That’s why SKIILLZ shares with you in this article 5 mistakes that every candidate should avoid in their resume. Happy reading!

1 - Drafting a "one-size-fits-all" CV

One common mistake in resume writing is creating a generic document. In other words, a resume that can be used for any job opening without considering the specific requirements of each position. Although it may seem convenient, such a CV compromises the chances of being hired. A personalized resume tailored to the skills and qualifications required by the company will have a much greater impact.

So, be original and use relevant keywords in the desired industry to set your application apart from others!

2 - Not including a title on your CV

The addition of title to a CV is not optional, it’s mandatory. Not only does it immediately give the impression that it is well-structured , but facilitates also the reading of the professional background . To do this, opt for a title that reflects the position you are seeking , highlight your area of expertise or customize it based on the specific job you are applying for . For example: Digital Marketing Specialist, Creative Graphic Designer, Landscape Architect, etc. The title should be positioned at the top of the CV, just below the name, directly capturing the attention of the recruiter.

3 - Listing only the acquired skills in the CV

The recruiter wants to know who you are and what your achievements are at the same time. An effective CV goes beyond simple descriptions of completed courses and skills ; there must be quantifiable accomplishments ! So, associate each skill with real professional situations by explaining how this experience contributed to achieving goals . For example: “As a Project Manager in digital marketing, I led a team of three people, and our expertise increased the brand’s awareness by 30% in six months while adhering to the set budgets.” By avoiding simply listing skills such as project management, digital marketing, and team management, etc., you create a more impactful CV that demonstrates your added value .

4 - Creating an unreadable layout

The visual presentation of a CV is just as important as its content. If the layout is too complex, the recruiter can quickly lose interest in the profile. It’s essential to pay attention to several criteria, starting with the font style. Choose one that is easily readable. Then, prioritize information by highlighting the most important using different font sizes, in bold or italics. Next is the paragraph structure. It should be well-spaced and remain consistent in the overall formatting: use bullets or numbers for lists. As for the color, avoid using more than two and ensure they don’t hinder the readability of the text.

5 - Including unnecessary information

When writing a CV, it can be tempting to include details such as a hobbies section or a very classic interest. However, not all information is necessarily relevant for every position. So, be selective in the elements you include in your CV, focusing on those that are aligned with the targeted position. This helps to keep the CV focused on relevant aspects of the professional field in question.

For example, if you’re applying for a web developer position and you mention in your interests: “photography, cooking, travel,” these do not provide any specific value for this type of position.

In short, like any written document, a CV relies on relevance and conciseness of information. By avoiding these common pitfalls, your application will have a better chance of being selected.