Taking the time to create a resume can be tough. Making simple mistakes can actually be costly. It can jeopardize your chance for an interview. And, if you’re lucky enough to get an interview, you still run the risk of elimination. Think about it – if the only difference between you and one other applicant is a glaring error on your resume, more than likely the applicant with a perfect resume will be selected over you, right?

Here are a couple of simple yet costly resume blunders you simply MUST avoid.

#1) If you’ve been sending the same resume for every job for which you apply, you’re making a serious error. Remember, there is no resume one size fits all resume that is effective. Tailor your resume to the job, and the prospective employer’s needs. If you’re applying for a job as a Customer Service Manager, don’t use your resume entitled Call Center Manager. Craft a resume that’s rich with keywords that are relevant to each particular job.  Use the right title.

#2) If you have a personal blog, website, or social media accounts, you will definitely want to review. You don’t want a hiring manager doing some quick recon to find you in a compromising situation. Remove anything from these sites that are best left private.

#3) Exaggerating can be a deal breaker. It’s a temptation you will want to avoid. Consider this: you’ve taken all but one of the classes required to obtain a certification that’s relevant to your industry. It might seem like a great way to get in the door, but it’s not a good idea. Instead, note on your resume that the certification is in progress and add the date expected. Nothing will come back and bite you later.

#4) Another killer is a resume chocked full of lengthy (and very boring) descriptions about your every job duty. Here’s why this isn’t a good idea. The hiring manager gets that you’re a firefighter, so you don’t need to focus on duties and responsibilities. You want to highlight accomplishments.

*Showcase how you revamped a system and significantly cut response times, devised processes to streamline operations, or created a program that fostered community engagement.

*No matter what, your focus should be on highlighting your abilities, demonstrating how you’re the best candidate for the job, and how effective you will be in the role. *

*A list of duties and responsibilities diminishes your level of expertise.

*A better approach is to assert yourself as a key contributor to the company.

* Remember, you rely on your job title and add only essential information to describe your duties – this is much more effective.

#5) Ugh. This is the blunder that is most annoying to hiring managers. It is so simple and yet such a biggy. Read and reread your resume to check for errors. Don’t assume spell check will catch everything. Ask a friend to check for spelling and typographical errors. An alternative is to consider hiring a professional proofreader. It’s not as expensive as you might think.

Keep in mind that even the simplest mistake on your resume can cost you dearly. Don’t jeopardize your chance at an interview. Avoid making blunders on your resume you’ll be on your way to an interview soon.

You might also be interested in:

How To Write An Interview Winning Resume

Five Top Tips For A Great Telephone Interview

Ready to reenergize your job search? I can help. Do you need a powerful resume? Career advancement tips? If you’re ready to expand your network, fire up your career plans, or simply need a push back on to the fast track, learn how I can help.

If you feel your career could be much more – should be much more, it’s time to get the support you need to achieve amazing results. Take advantage of my 12 years of executive recruiting, career coaching, and resume writing experience. Contact me and we’ll get started.

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