🚨 Common Resume Mistakes
Let’s learn from each other and make this a go-to list. Leave a comment with additional resume mistakes to avoid.
🚨 Mistake #1: Longer than 1-page
An effective 1-page resume shows that you are capable of writing clearly, concisely, and have good judgement on what information to highlight and what to remove.
Assume recruiters spend 6 seconds reviewing your resume to determine “fit or no fit.”
Note: 2-3 page resumes work if the candidate has 20+ years of experience AND a previous role is uniquely relevant to the job they are applying for now either based on domain expertise/skill or industry (e.g. tax attorney 7+ years ago).
🚨 Mistake #2: Unrelated work experience
When deciding to move forward with a phone screen/interview, the recruiter selects the most qualified candidates based on how their resumes fulfill the job requirements as defined in the job description (JD).
Make sure the examples in your resume are relevant and tailored to the specific role you are applying for.
🚨 Mistake #3: Vague details
Recruiters and hiring managers want to know what you specifically did (actions took) and the outcome (data-driven results).
Do not say you have “leadership skills” — instead — explain how you led your team/co-workers and collaborated with different stakeholders to launch a new product.
Do not say “significantly beat goals” — instead — explain how you won the 2020 top performer award by exceeding the annual on-time delivery target of 90% by 150 bps.
Click here to read more about the Action and Result piece of the STAR Method.
🚨 Mistake #4: Inconsistent sentence format
Spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors are table-stakes.
However, there is a more subtle error I come across even in strong STAR Method driven resumes. See if you can spot it below.
Strong STAR Method resume example 1.
Strong STAR Method resume example 2
Strong STAR Method resume example 3.
Noticed it? Example 2 does not have a period at the end of the sentence.
Choose one format (with or without periods — I recommend using periods) and stick with it. Why? Because it shows consistency and attention to detail.
🚨 Mistake #5: Information does not match LinkedIn
Job title, dates, descriptions, etc. — make sure all resume details match your LinkedIn.
Why? Because it shows consistency, attention to detail, and avoids confusing if there is a discrepancy.
🚨 Mistake #6: Not sending in PDF
Unless the application process has specific requirements, send your resume in PDF to ensure the reader views your resume in the intended format.
Why? Because formatting differs between Microsoft Word, Apple Pages, Google Docs, etc. and you cannot control what the reader uses (PC or Mac).
⭐ Pro Tip: Use the STAR Method to improve your resume
Clearly and concisely explain your experience using the STAR Method (describe the situation, the required task, your chosen action, and result).
Each resume bullet point can be 3 short sentences. First sentence describes the situation and task. Second sentence explains the action you took. Third sentence highlights data-driven results.
Click here for an overview of the STAR Method and why it is applicable to resumes.
P.S. forward this to a colleague/friend if you think this will help.
If you have questions, comments, or feedback, email me at starmethodresume@gmail.com