Your resume gets under 7 seconds to grab a recruiter’s attention or risk being tossed onto the rejection pile - and that’s only if it survives the ATS (Applicant Tracking System). This razor-thin window leaves no margin for error, as even minor mistakes can sabotage your chances of landing an interview. You could be the most qualified and skilled candidate in the pool, but if your resume has grammatical or formatting errors, it will still be passed over.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 12 most common resume mistakes and how to fix them - many in just 10 minutes - so you can stand out and make an impact with every application.

‍

1. Submitting a Resume That Won't Get Past an ATS

Your resume faces its first challenge before a recruiter even glances at it: the Applicant Tracking System (ATS). It reads your resume and scans for specific parameters (mostly keywords reflecting if you are a good match) pre-set by the employer. Not only must you have those keywords included in your resume, but also in the right place and format for ATS to recognize.

Hence, if your resume isn’t optimized for ATS, it’s likely to be rejected outright - no matter how perfect you are for the job.

So, if you’ve been applying to jobs and hearing crickets, despite having the right qualifications and experience, it’s probably not the hiring manager overlooking your application - it’s the ATS blocking it.

✅ Resolution

• Choose a professional-looking layout that is simple to read and navigate.
• Use relevant headings and bullet points to highlight key information effectively.
• Ensure consistency in font styles and sizes throughout the document to maintain a polished look.
• Organize your resume in a chronological or functional format based on your work experience to positively impact how recruiters perceive your candidacy.

✅ How to Do It

It is very easy to structure and format your resume correctly. Visit Careerflow's AI Resume Builder, and choose the template that fits your role (all Careerflow templates are designed to pass the ATS with the appropriate format and structure), as shown below.

If you’d prefer just to edit the version you’ve already got, try our resume review service for a professional (human) overhaul.

2. Submitting A Resume Not Tailored To The Job Description

It's important to customize your resume to match the specific job requirements. Using the same resume for all job applications is a mistake to avoid. When you submit an application, tailor your resume to the specific role to demonstrate to employers or recruiters why you are a good fit. Keep an original master copy of your resume and create customized versions for each role based on it.

✅ Resolution

• Analyze the job description thoroughly and tailor your resume to emphasize relevant skills and experiences that match the job specifications.
• Incorporate keywords from the job posting to ensure your resume passes through applicant tracking systems (ATS) effectively.
• Highlighting accomplishments and experiences that directly relate to the job role can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed by recruiters.
• Remember, a tailored resume shows your commitment and interest in the position, setting you apart from other applicants.

✅ How to Do It

We understand that personalizing each application can be time-consuming, but what if we told you it could be done with just one click? 

Using Careerflow's AI Resume Builder you can upload your original resume and choose the position you want to apply for from the saved job tracker. Once chosen, the builder automatically tailors a customized resume using the original version based on the job description.

Isn't this so easy? Try our Resume Builder for yourself today!

‍

3. Spelling And Grammatical Errors 

One of the most common resume mistakes to steer clear of is spelling and grammatical errors. Typos can leave a negative impression on recruiters and suggest carelessness. In a competitive job market, flawless writing is crucial for creating a favorable impression. 

✅ Resolution

• Before submitting your resume, thoroughly proofread it for spelling and grammatical inaccuracies.
• Utilize spell-check tools and consider seeking a second pair of eyes for a fresh perspective.
• Correct grammar and proper spelling demonstrate your attention to detail and professionalism.
• Show your dedication to excellence by ensuring your resume is error-free.

✅ How to Do It

Major errors occur in summaries and bullet points where an explanation is needed. Instead of manually writing your resume points, you can use an AI Resume Builder to tailor your resume. 

With  Careerflow's AI generator, you can create summaries and bullet points without any errors or grammatical mistakes, as shown below.

4. Having a Resume Objective Instead of a Summary 

Resume objectives focus on what you want in a job rather than what you bring to the table, which is why they’ve fallen out of favor. In contrast, a tailored resume summary grabs attention by showcasing your key qualifications, achievements, and alignment with the role. Think of it as your personal elevator pitch - a concise, engaging introduction that hooks recruiters immediately. Without one, you risk missing the chance to make a stellar first impression. 

✅ Resolution:

• Assess your skills, qualifications, and whether you genuinely align with the role you're applying for.
  
  
• Identify your most relevant achievements and quantify them where possible to demonstrate expertise.
  
  
• Open with a compelling power verb that describes your professional identity (e.g., “results-driven project manager”).
  
  
• Include quantifiable accomplishments that relate directly to the job.
  
  
• Conclude your summary with a personal goal that reflects your eagerness to contribute and grow within the company. 

✅ How to Do It

Writing multiple tailored resume summaries can be a little too much to do when you want to go fast with your application submission. That’s where Careerflow’s resume builder comes in. Its built-in summary writer aligns the minute details of your expertise to the requirements of the targeted role and strategically incorporates keywords to make it ATS-friendly. 

‍

5. Missing Relevant Skills and Experience

Recruiters and ATS tools focus on one thing: how well your skills and experience match the job’s requirements. And unfortunately, most job seekers lack specificity in how they present their relevant skills, qualifications, and experience for the role they're targeting. 

For example, if a job requires proficiency in React.js and Node.js, blandly stating, “Full-stack developer with a degree in Software Engineering” won’t cut it. 

Even if you’re skilled in these areas, failing to name them directly will likely cost you the opportunity. Instead, be specific and targeted: “Developed scalable applications using React.js and Node.js, improving system efficiency by 30%.”

This approach not only highlights relevance but also demonstrates the impact of your skills and experience.

✅ Resolution

• Prominently feature your most relevant skills and accomplishments in your resume. Use bullet points for easy scanning and clarity.
• Don't just list skills; provide concrete examples of how you've applied them in past roles. Provide numbers and metrics to measure your accomplishments whenever possible. Here's an example:

• Listed Skill: Communication Skills
• Example: Increased customer satisfaction ratings by 15% by implementing a new active listening technique during customer support interactions.

• Emphasize any certifications, training, or specific accomplishments that demonstrate your expertise in the field. This showcases your dedication to professional development and relevant knowledge.

✅ How to Do It

By leveraging Careerflow's AI Resume Builder, you can showcase your most relevant skills and experience with clarity, impact, and confidence, putting you a step ahead in the competitive job market. 

Upload your existing resume or start fresh. Careerflow's AI scans your content, intelligently identifying relevant skills you possess. Once identified, the builder helps you prioritize the most relevant skills for each specific job you apply for. This tailoring ensures your resume speaks directly to the needs of the employer, increasing your chances of landing an interview.

‍

Also Read: How to Add Work Experience to Your Resume in 2024

6. Making Your Resume Too Lengthy and Overwhelming 

Recruiters don’t have the time (or patience) to sift through long resumes, especially when they’re looking for specific qualifications. Your resume should be no longer than two pages.

The key here is to be concise and focus on what truly matters. So, cut out lengthy paragraphs and irrelevant details that bury your core strengths. Instead, move the most closely matching qualifications and experience to the top. A focused, clear resume helps recruiters quickly see why you’re a fit for the role.

✅ Resolution

• Focus on accomplishments, skills, and experiences that directly align with the job description.
• Showcase the results you achieved in past roles. Did you increase sales? Streamline a process? Quantify your impact whenever possible.
• Aim for a maximum of two pages. Every section should add value to your candidacy.
• Use clear and concise language. Bullet points are your friend!
• Avoid using personal pronouns. Instead of “I managed a diverse portfolio,” simply write, “Managed a diverse portfolio of clients.”

✅ How to Do It

Worried your resume is cluttered and overwhelming for recruiters🤔? Careerflow's AI Resume Builder is here to help you achieve laser focus and impactful conciseness. 

• Once logged in, Careerflow's AI analyzes your experience and skills to craft a targeted summary.
• Using a concise overview highlights your most relevant qualifications, grabbing the recruiter's attention from the start.
• Lengthy descriptions can bog down your resume. Using Careerflow transforms your experience into impactful bullet points.
• Use Careerflow's AI scans to eliminate unnecessary fluff and follow the suggestions to improve your resume further.

By leveraging Careerflow's AI Resume Builder, you can create a concise and focused resume that highlights your strengths without losing impact. This will make a strong first impression on recruiters and significantly increase your chances of landing an interview!

‍

7.  Writing a Resume that Lacks Important Keywords 

Recruiters feed the ATS role-specific keywords to help it identify candidates that perfectly match the job’s requirements. To get past the ATS, your resume must include those same keywords. These keywords can be related to required qualifications, skills, tools, experience, and even location - essentially, anything mentioned in the job description.

By strategically adding these keywords to your resume, you'll increase your chances of making it past the ATS and into the hands of hiring managers. Just make sure you use them naturally and in context - don’t force them.

✅ Resolution

• Review the job description to identify the key terms and phrases. These could include your experience level, specific tools, required skills, relevant coursework, or even your location.
• Incorporate these keywords in your resume summary, work history, and skills section without going overboard and disrupting the flow of content. 
• While keywords help your resume pass the ATS, once it gets to a human recruiter, they’ll quickly notice if your resume feels stuffed with awkwardly placed terms. It’ll make your resume hard to read and won’t showcase your true value beyond the jargon.
• Avoid overloading your resume with unnecessary details just to fit in more keywords. Sure, you might get past the ATS, but the recruiter won’t be impressed by a wall of text that’s difficult to digest.
• Consider using synonyms for your keywords where it makes sense. This adds variety and ensures that you’re covering all bases, especially if the ATS is programmed to look for related or broader terms.

✅ How to Do It

Finding the right keywords and figuring out where to place them in your resume can be confusing and time-consuming. You want to make sure the ATS picks you up but not overload it to the point that recruiters are turned off - we get it.

That’s where Careerflow’s AI Resume Builder comes in handy. It helps you identify the right keywords and provides guidance on where to add them, saving you time and stress. The final result is an ATS-optimized and recruiter-friendly resume!

‍

8. Not Incorporating Quantifiable Achievements

Recruiters are always looking for results-oriented candidates. Simply listing your responsibilities is a big mistake and that isn't enough. By incorporating quantifiable achievements, you demonstrate your value proposition and set yourself apart from other candidates.

✅ Resolution

• Mention your accomplishments with specific metrics and data whenever possible.some text
  • Example: Developed a custom e-commerce platform using Python, Django, and PostgreSQL, tailored to the client's unique business needs, resulting in a 25% increase in their online sales within 3 months of deployment.
  • Example: Collaborated with a cross-functional team to design and implement scalable solutions, achieving 99.9% system uptime and increasing the client’s operational efficiency by 40%.

• Don't just list numbers; explain their significance. How did your achievements impact the company's success? some text
  • Example: Enhanced client retention by 35% through exceptional project quality and proactive communication, leading the client to award an additional $45,000 in projects to the company.
• Quantifiable achievements aren't limited to sales or finance. Use numbers to showcase your impact in any role. some text
  • Example: Implemented a feedback loop by analyzing 1,000+ customer complaints and suggesting process improvements, which reduced ticket resolution time by 15% and boosted customer satisfaction scores (CSAT) from 87% to 92% in six months.

✅ How to Do It

Use Careerflow's AI Resume Builder to help you identify opportunities to quantify your achievements and suggest improvements to your bullet points. Use the view guidance option in the tool to leverage the AI guidance. Don't limit yourself to percentages or monetary figures. Consider metrics relevant to your field.

By putting these tips into action you can transform your resume into a data-driven powerhouse, showcasing your accomplishments with undeniable impact!

9. Including The Salary Requirements

Adding salary requirements to your resume can hurt your chances right out of the gate. 

If your stated figure is above the company’s budget, they might disqualify you before considering your qualifications. On the flip side, if your number is too low, you could sell yourself short and leave money on the table. Either way, it’s better to keep salary discussions for later.

Also, when you avoid mentioning salary upfront, you keep the door open for discussions later in the hiring process. By that time, the recruiter will have seen the value you bring through your skills and expertise - putting you in a stronger position to negotiate a salary that reflects your worth.

✅ Resolution

• The simplest solution is to just not add a salary requirement. There is no need to add a salary section, by doing this you can avoid any potential drawbacks mentioned earlier.
• Waiting for the interview allows for a more informed discussion. You can research salary ranges beforehand and be prepared to negotiate based on your qualifications and the employer's offer.
• If omitting salary entirely feels uncomfortable, consider including a broad range at the very bottom of your resume. Frame it as "Salary Expectations: Negotiable within the [insert range]" This approach acknowledges salary is a factor but avoids locking yourself into a specific number.

✅ How to Do It

Instead of stating salary requirements upfront in your resume, focus on showcasing your skills, achievements, and the value you bring to the table. But do your homework using salary calculators or platforms like Glassdoor to understand the typical range for the role and your experience. It will prepare you to discuss the salary expectations in the interview without stating a specific number upfront. 

‍

10. Adding Incorrect Contact Information

All the hard work you put into perfecting your resume will be for nothing if the recruiter can’t reach you. 

Imagine being the top candidate, but a typo in your phone number or email address causes you to miss that interview call or email. It's a frustrating and avoidable mistake and one that can cost you the opportunity you’ve been working toward. Double-checking your contact details is as important as any other part of your resume.  

By ensuring your contact information is accurate and readily available, you avoid unnecessary hurdles in the application process and increase your chances of landing that dream job.

✅ Resolution

• Carefully review your contact information for any typos or errors. Include your full name, professional email address, and current phone number with a clear country code (if applicable).
• Use a professional email address that you check regularly. Avoid using outdated or unprofessional email addresses.
• A strong LinkedIn profile can be a valuable asset in your job search. Include a link to your profile on your resume, ensuring it's up-to-date and reflects your skills and experience. Remember to shorten your LinkedIn URL for a cleaner, more polished appearance.

✅ How to Do It

To make sure your contact information is easy for recruiters to find and correct, create a dedicated contact section at the top of your resume. Include your name, phone number, professional email, and any other relevant links, like your LinkedIn or portfolio. The Careerflow AI Resume Builder is perfect for this - it features templates that format your contact info correctly,  making it easy to find.

For extra peace of mind, ask someone else to review it too. 

‍

11. Using Jargon Or Cliches

While including industry-specific terms helps demonstrate your expertise, overloading your resume with jargon can make it sound robotic. Remember, after the ATS scans your resume, a human recruiter will read it. They want to see more than just your technical knowledge - they want to feel your passion, enthusiasm, and what makes you stand out. Overusing buzzwords or tech-heavy language can strip that personal touch away.

And when it comes to clichés like “team player” or “hard worker,” they’ve been used so much that they’ve lost their impact. Instead of using these overused terms, show your skills and personality with specific examples of your achievements and how you’ve contributed to past roles.

✅ Resolution

• Use clear, concise language that is easy for anyone to understand. Avoid jargon, unnecessary phrases, and complex sentence structures.
• Showcase your past accomplishments with specific examples that demonstrate your skills and contributions. Use powerful action verbs and measurable results whenever possible.
• Replace generic phrases with specific skills relevant to the job description. Tailor your resume to each position you apply for.

✅ How to Do It

Take a step back and read your resume for overused jargon. Simplify technical terms where you can, but still keep the essential ones. For example, instead of saying "results-driven," showcase specific outcomes, like “increased sales by 15%.” Careerflow’s AI Resume Builder can suggest clearer, more approachable alternatives and help you focus on key achievements while maintaining the right balance of technical language for each job application.

‍

12. Submitting an Outdated Resume

It’s tempting to rush and submit a pre-existing resume when a job posting catches your attention, but skipping updates can cost you more than just time. 

While you might save 10-15 minutes by not editing it, you risk missing the chance to highlight your most recent achievements, certifications, and skills. Even if you’re a perfect match for the role, submitting an outdated resume could keep you from making the best impression and ultimately cost you a golden opportunity. 

✅ Resolution

• Double-check that your contact details (phone, email, LinkedIn) are current.
• Remove outdated positions or skills that no longer align with your career path.
• Add new certifications, qualifications, or achievements that are relevant to the role.
• Tailor your resume to highlight the most recent and impactful experiences.

✅ How to Do It

With Careerflow’s AI Resume Builder, you can easily upload your old resume and let the tool guide you through updating it. It helps you highlight the most relevant skills and qualifications for the role you’re targeting, suggesting where to add keywords and how to structure your resume for maximum impact.

‍

13. Including Irrelevant Information

When recruiters sift through your resume, they want to quickly see how you align with the job. Adding too much irrelevant info only adds clutter. Unrelated work experience, outdated skills, or personal details like your political views or marital status can make it seem like you don’t understand the position or don’t have a clear career focus. So keep it clean, keep it relevant, and you'll make a stronger impact.

✅ Resolution

• Carefully review the job description for key skills and qualifications.
• Compare your resume against the job requirements to highlight the relevant experiences.
• If a past experience is transferable (like senior management from a different industry), include it. But leave out the unrelated stuff (like working at McDonald's when applying for a software role).
• Avoid adding personal details like marital status, religion, or political views—keep the focus on what matters for the job.

✅ How to Do It

Careerflow’s resume analysis feature helps you evaluate your resume’s relevance. By giving you a score, it shows where unnecessary information might be cluttering up your content. It also suggests areas for improvement and offers specific tips for removing irrelevant sections. You can even use its AI-powered bullet point writer to refresh your work history and skills with concise, job-relevant info that showcases your strengths.

‍

Conclusion

As you navigate the competitive job market of 2025, remember that a well-crafted resume is your key to unlocking new opportunities. Avoid common pitfalls such as outdated formats, generic content, and overlooking essential details. Instead, focus on showcasing your unique skills, accomplishments, and experiences in a compelling and concise manner. 

Tailor your resume to each job application, highlighting relevant achievements that align with the specific job requirements. Pay attention to language, formatting, and design to ensure that your resume is professional, easy to read, and visually appealing. By implementing these strategies and continuously seeking feedback for improvement, you'll be well-equipped to impress potential employers and land your dream job.

In addition to acquiring this knowledge, utilize Careerflow's AI Resume Builder to simplify all your manual processes with just one click.

"Why wait then? Use the easiest way to land your dream job! ✨"

‍

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common resume mistakes to avoid?

Common resume mistakes include typos, grammatical errors, and not tailoring the resume for every application. These issues can make you appear careless or unprofessional. Also, including irrelevant information, such as outdated job roles or personal details like marital status, can distract from your qualifications. 

Most importantly, poor formatting - such as inconsistent font sizes, overly complex layouts, or lack of white space - can make it hard for both ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) and hiring managers to read your resume effectively.

How important is it to tailor my resume for each job application?

By aligning your resume with the specific requirements of the job description, you make it clear that you have the relevant skills and experience the employer is seeking. It significantly boosts your chances of passing ATS filters, which often scan for keywords. And, it helps hiring managers quickly see that you're a strong match, improving your chances of landing an interview.
  

Is it acceptable to use creative formats and fonts on my resume?

While standing out is important, using overly creative formats or fonts on your resume can be a double-edged sword. Some fonts or flashy designs may appear unprofessional or cluttered, making your resume hard to read. 

More importantly, many Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) struggle with parsing resumes that use unconventional formatting. So we recommend sticking to standard, easily readable fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri, and avoiding bright colors or excessive design elements that could distract from your qualifications.
 

Should I include all my work experience on my resume?

No, it’s important to focus on relevant work experience. Including jobs that don’t align with the role you're applying for can confuse recruiters and dilute the strength of your application. If you've had a varied career, choose positions that showcase transferable skills or accomplishments that apply directly to the job you're targeting.
 

How can I avoid grammatical and typographical errors on my resume?

To avoid these errors, proofread your resume multiple times. Use built-in spell-check tools to catch basic mistakes, but don’t rely on them entirely- - they may miss context-based errors. It's also helpful to read your resume backward, line by line, to focus on individual words. 

Beyond self-review, ask someone else to proofread your resume. A fresh set of eyes can spot mistakes you might have overlooked.

What are the risks of lying or exaggerating on my resume?

Lying or exaggerating your qualifications on your resume can lead to severe consequences, including being disqualified from a job opportunity or even being fired if the lie is discovered later. Employers often verify your claims through background checks or interviews, and any inconsistencies will harm your credibility.

How long should my resume be?

The length of your resume should depend on your experience. 

If you're early in your career, aim for a one-page resume to keep it concise and focused. But if you have extensive experience or multiple relevant qualifications, you can go up to two pages at most. 

Remember, quality over quantity is crucial - each section should add value to your application without unnecessary filler. So always focus on the most recent and relevant positions and qualifications that align with the job you're applying for.