Your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer, and it’s crucial to get it right. However, there are many common mistakes that could be holding you back from landing that dream job. Here's the most common issues I see come across my desk as a Professional Resume Writer.
Too Long : Aim for 1-3 pages; anything more might be a red flag. Yes, I have seen a 22 page resume. No, please don't do this.
Including Irrelevant Experience: Focus on experience that’s relevant to the job. No, the time you worked at Dairy Queen in 1978 is not relevant.
Too Much Personal Information: Leave out details like age, marital status, or photo. All of this opens you up for discrimination. The only time your DOB should be listed on your resume is if you are eligible for junior rates.
Including Every Job You’ve Ever Had: Only list jobs that are relevant to the position or most recent.
Unnecessary Graphics or Images: Keep the design simple and professional. Avoid the logos and the photos.
Including Hobbies: Only include hobbies if they are relevant to the job or interesting. Def don't write 'Shopping, Gardening & Cars'. Do write that you went to the Olympics for discus throwing.
Outdated Format: Modernise your resume with contemporary formatting.
Writing in the First Person: Avoid personal pronouns like “I” or “my.” This is only for the resume, you want to use first person for government selection criteria and cover letters.
Using a Non-Standard File Format: Send your resume as a PDF unless otherwise specified.
Including a Photo: Unless requested, don’t include a photo.
Using Colored Paper: Stick to white or neutral backgrounds.
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