Resume Mistakes to Avoid — Why Your Resume Isn’t Getting Interviews

You’ve applied to dozens of jobs — maybe even hundreds — and still no interviews.

You might be wondering:
- Is it my visa?
- My experience?
- My qualifications?

But most of the time, the issue is simpler than that.

Your resume might have a few key mistakes — and fixing them could mean the difference between silence and an offer.

Mistake 1: It’s Too Generic

You list responsibilities, not results.
You copy-paste from the job ad.

Hiring managers don’t want a list of duties — they want to see impact.

Instead of writing “responsible for managing projects,” try “delivered 3 projects on time and under budget, improving client satisfaction by 20%.”

Mistake 2: Poor Formatting

Design-heavy resumes break the Applicant Tracking System (ATS).

Fancy templates, columns, graphics — they confuse the software and your resume gets filtered out.

Use a clean, simple layout that highlights keywords and achievements.

Mistake 3: Not Tailored to the Role

If you’re using the same resume for every job, it shows.

A strong resume mirrors the language of the job description and emphasizes the skills that matter most for that specific role.

A tailored resume stands out — even when you’re competing against locals or more experienced candidates.

This is What Worked for My Clients

My clients went from no interviews to job offers — often in just weeks — simply by fixing these resume mistakes.

You don’t need PR, local experience, or connections. You need a strategy that works for international candidates.

Want to Fix These Resume Mistakes for Good?

Download the Skilled Job Starter Kit — the free resource international students and migrants use to land interviews fast.

It includes:
- The Killer Resume Template
- A LinkedIn checklist that attracts recruiters
- Interview strategies that build trust and get offers

Get it free here: https://www.theaho.co/free

FAQs

What are the most common resume mistakes?

The most common include generic wording, poor formatting, and resumes that aren’t tailored to the job description.

Can a bad resume cost me the job?

Yes. If your resume doesn’t pass the ATS or show clear value, it won’t make it to the interview round.

How can I improve my resume as an international student?

Use a simple layout, highlight achievements, and mirror keywords from the job ad. Avoid complex design or irrelevant experience.