Resume Mistakes to Avoid — Stop Sabotaging Your Job Search

Your resume is your first impression with an employer. One small mistake can cost you an interview — and for international students and skilled migrants, the stakes are even higher. You have to prove your value quickly, often without local experience or networks.

In this guide, we’ll go through the most common resume mistakes to avoid, why they matter, and exactly how to fix them so you can start landing more interviews.

Mistake 1: Writing a Generic Resume

A generic, one-size-fits-all resume rarely works. Employers want to see why you’re the perfect fit for their role, and that means tailoring your resume for each job you apply for.

Customisation starts with studying the job description, identifying the skills and keywords it mentions, and reflecting those in your resume. This is critical for both Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and human reviewers.

Example: If the job calls for 'stakeholder engagement', include examples of projects where you managed relationships or collaborated across teams — using that same phrase if it’s accurate.

Tip: Keep a 'master resume' with all your experience, then create tailored versions for each application.

Mistake 2: Focusing on Duties Instead of Results

Listing responsibilities like 'Managed projects' isn’t enough to stand out. Employers want to know the impact you made.

Instead of duties, focus on achievements:
- 'Managed 5 projects worth $1M, all delivered ahead of schedule'
- 'Reduced processing time by 25% through workflow improvements'

Achievements demonstrate value. They prove you can deliver results, not just complete tasks.

Mistake 3: ATS-Unfriendly Formatting

Many resumes fail because Applicant Tracking Systems can’t read them. If the ATS can’t parse your information, your application may never be seen by a recruiter.

Avoid:
- Graphics, tables, or multiple columns
- Fancy fonts or design-heavy templates
- Headers and footers for critical details

Use a clean, single-column format with clear section headings like 'Work Experience', 'Education', and 'Skills'. Save your file in .docx format or PDF (only if the job posting allows).

Mistake 4: Including Irrelevant Work Experience

Including every job you’ve ever had, even if it’s unrelated, dilutes your message. Hiring managers may assume you lack relevant experience if your resume is filled with unrelated roles.

Only include roles that align with your target position or demonstrate transferable skills. If you must include unrelated jobs to fill gaps, keep them brief and focus on skills relevant to the role you want.

Mistake 5: Poorly Written Resume Summary or Objective

Your resume summary or objective is prime real estate — it’s often the first thing a recruiter reads. A vague, generic statement like 'Seeking a challenging role in a dynamic company' says nothing about you.

Instead, use this space to highlight your most relevant skills, experience, and achievements in 3–4 sentences. Make it specific to the role and employer.

Example: 'Business graduate with experience in project coordination and stakeholder engagement, skilled in managing budgets and timelines, seeking to contribute to a leading construction firm.'

Mistake 6: Typos and Grammar Errors

Even one typo can make you appear careless and unprofessional. Employers often receive hundreds of applications, and small mistakes can be a quick reason to move your resume to the rejection pile.

Proofread multiple times, and use tools like Grammarly or Hemingway. Better yet, have a friend, mentor, or career coach review your resume for clarity and accuracy.

Mistake 7: Not Including Keywords

ATS systems scan your resume for keywords that match the job description. If you don’t include the right terms, your resume may never make it to a human.

Study the job posting carefully and naturally incorporate relevant keywords into your work experience, skills, and summary sections. Avoid 'keyword stuffing' — it needs to read naturally.

Mistake 8: Not Updating Your Resume Regularly

The job market changes quickly, and so should your resume. If you’ve been using the same version for months without results, it’s time for an update.

Add your latest achievements, refine your skills section, and make sure your experience is still relevant to the roles you want.

Bonus Tip: Customise for ATS and Humans

Passing the ATS is important, but so is impressing a human recruiter. Balance keyword optimisation with clear, compelling writing. Avoid keyword stuffing, where you repeat the same phrases unnaturally — it’s obvious and off-putting to hiring managers.

Get a Resume That Works

If you’re ready to avoid these mistakes and start landing interviews, download the Skilled Job Starter Kit. You’ll get:
- An ATS-friendly resume template
- A cover letter template that gets noticed
- A LinkedIn profile checklist
- Interview strategies that convert offers

This free resource has helped hundreds of international students and migrants land skilled jobs faster.

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

FAQs

What is the most common resume mistake?

Using a generic resume that isn’t tailored to the role you’re applying for.

Can design-heavy resumes hurt my chances?

Yes. They may look appealing but can’t be read by ATS, which means they might never reach a recruiter.

How often should I update my resume?

Every time you apply for a new job, and at least every few months to reflect your latest skills and achievements.