1. You're Not Speaking the Language of the Job
Most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes before a human ever sees them. If your resume doesn't include the right keywords from the job description, it may never make it past the first round.
Fix it: Tailor your resume for each role. Mirror the language in the job posting, particularly in terms of skills, tools, and certifications. For example, if the job calls for "cross-functional collaboration," don't just say "team player"—use their exact phrasing.
2. Your Format Is Outdated or ATS-unfriendly
Design-heavy resumes with columns, graphics, or text boxes may look great to the human eye, but they often confuse ATS software. If your resume isn't machine-readable, it could be automatically rejected.
Fix it: Stick to clean, simple formatting. Use standard fonts (such as Calibri or Arial), clear section headers, and avoid using tables or images. Save your file as a Word document or a plain-text PDF to ensure compatibility with various devices and applications.
3. You're Listing Responsibilities, Not Results
Recruiters don't want a job description—they want to see your impact. If your bullet points only describe what you were "responsible for," you're missing a chance to stand out.
Fix it: Focus on achievements. Use action verbs and quantify your results. For example: "Increased customer retention by 22% through targeted onboarding strategy."
4. You're Using a One-Size-Fits-All Resume
Sending the same resume to every job is a fast track to the rejection pile. Recruiters can tell when you haven't taken the time to tailor your application to the specific job.
Fix it: Customize your resume for each role. Highlight the most relevant experience, reorder bullet points to match the job's priorities, and adjust your summary to reflect the company's values.
5. You're Believing Resume Myths
Do you think you need to keep your resume to one page? Or that you should include an objective statement? These outdated rules can do more harm than good.
Fix it: Use a professional summary instead of an objective. Go beyond one page if you have relevant experience. And don't be afraid to show your personality—keep it professional.