Do you send out multiple resumes but rarely get called for interviews? The issue might lie within your own resume. Many professionals make simple mistakes that are fatal in the eyes of recruiters — and even more so with automated screening systems. In this article, you’ll learn the most common mistakes — and, more importantly, how to avoid them with practical solutions.

1. Using a Generic Resume for All Job Applications

Sending the same resume to different companies and positions shows a lack of attention and personalization. Nowadays, job openings are often screened by applicant tracking systems (ATS) that search for specific keywords.
✅ Solution:
Tailor your resume for each position. Carefully read the job description and include relevant keywords and skills.

2. Vague or Confusing Career Objective

Bad example: “Looking for new opportunities to grow personally and professionally.”
This says nothing to the recruiter. Your objective should be clear and targeted.
✅ Good example:
“Seeking a position as an Administrative Assistant, contributing to process organization and customer service.”

3. Too Much Information or Long Paragraphs

Resumes filled with huge blocks of text discourage reading. Recruiters spend an average of 6 to 10 seconds deciding whether to keep reading.
✅ Solution:
Use bullet points, action verbs, and short sentences. Focus on what’s relevant to the role.

4. Visual Disorganization and Lack of Consistency

Mixing fonts, sizes, spacing, and using a confusing layout conveys carelessness and lack of professionalism.
✅ Solution:
Use ready-made templates from platforms like Canva, VisualCV, or Novoresume. Maintain aligned margins, consistent headings, and a clear visual hierarchy.

5. Lies or Exaggerated Information

Recruiters are skilled at spotting inflated or fake experiences. Lying can cost you the job, even if you move forward in the process.
✅ Solution:
Be honest. Highlight real accomplishments, even from volunteer work or academic projects.

6. Outdated or Incomplete Contact Information

Incorrect phone numbers, outdated emails, or missing contact info are critical errors.
✅ Solution:
Review your resume every time before sending. Keep your LinkedIn and contact details updated.

7. Spelling or Grammar Mistakes

Even a small typo can make you appear careless or unprepared.
✅ Solution:
Use tools like Microsoft Word’s spell check, Grammarly, LanguageTool, or even ChatGPT to proofread your text.

8. No Results in Your Work Experience

Listing only tasks without showing impact or results weakens your experience.
Bad example: “Responsible for customer service.”
✅ Good example: “Assisted over 50 customers per day, increasing satisfaction ratings by 20%.”

9. Including Personal Documents in the Resume

Avoid adding personal data like ID numbers, tax identification (e.g., CPF), voter registration, or photos — unless the job posting specifically requires them.
✅ Solution:
Only include your name, phone number, email, city/state, and LinkedIn link.

10. Sending a File with a Generic Name

Resumes saved as “myresume.pdf” or “new.doc” make identification difficult.
✅ Solution:
Save it with a professional name, such as: Resume_JoseSilva_2025.pdf. Avoiding these mistakes is one of the first steps to standing out in the selection process. A clear, concise, personalized, and error-free resume shows professionalism and attention to detail — qualities that every employer values.
Reviewing your resume might be the missing piece in landing your next opportunity!