Writing a resume is an important step in the job search process, and it's essential to make sure you get it right. Harvard career experts have identified the five most common mistakes to avoid when writing a resume, and what to do instead. The first mistake is spelling and grammatical errors. If you want to be taken seriously for a professional job, you need to write like a professional.
Poor formatting is another common mistake that employers will notice right away. Your resume should be well organized, concise, and easy to flip through. Any spelling mistakes, formatting errors, or overused buzzwords can make your otherwise great resume seem less professional. It's important to take the time to review your resume for errors.
Try reading it aloud or better yet, ask someone else to review it for you. Refining your resume is just the first step in your job search; you must also apply for the right jobs, write a compelling cover letter, and pass the interview. Simple grammatical and spelling errors are some of the most common mistakes people make when writing their resumes. Ask a colleague, coworker, or friend to review your resume and check if there are any mistakes you've overlooked.
While these errors may not cause them to reject your resume, it's best to thoroughly review it before submitting it to ensure you leave the best possible impression on employers. The last mistake to avoid when writing your resume is including any information that could be used to discriminate against you. While it's illegal for employers to discriminate on the basis of religion, ethnicity, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or disability, it's still commonplace in the United States. This is perhaps the most common mistake people make when writing their resumes (especially when writing a resume for a first job).
