Most resumes aren't rejected for one big flaw. They lose out through a handful of small, fixable habits that make a reader's job harder. Here are ten of the most common, with what to do about each.
1. Using one generic resume for every job
A resume that tries to suit every role rarely fits any of them well. Fix: keep a master version with everything, then adjust the summary, bullet order, and skills for each application. See our step-by-step tailoring guide.
2. Listing duties instead of achievements
"Responsible for customer service" describes a job, not what you did with it. Fix: say what you accomplished: "Resolved an average of 40 customer queries a day with a 95% satisfaction rating." Use real figures only.
3. Leaving out results and numbers
Numbers make claims concrete: volume, time saved, money, growth, size of team. Fix: add a metric wherever you honestly can. If you can't measure something, describe the scope instead.
4. Being too long
There is no universal rule, but one page is usually enough early in a career, and two pages for experienced applicants. Fix: cut older or irrelevant roles to a line, and trim bullets that don't support the job you're applying for.
5. Dense text and cramped layout
Walls of text, tiny fonts, and squeezed margins make a resume tiring to read. Fix: use short bullets (one or two lines), readable type around 10 to 12 points, and clear spacing between sections.
6. Design that breaks parsing
Columns, tables, icons, and graphics can scramble how software reads your resume. Fix: use a single column with standard headings. See how applicant tracking systems read resumes.
7. Typos and inconsistent formatting
Spelling errors and mismatched dates or bullet styles suggest a lack of care. Fix: proofread slowly, read it aloud, and ask someone else to check it. Use one date format throughout.
8. Including outdated or low-value content
Objective statements, "references available upon request", and unrelated jobs from decades ago take space without adding value. Fix: replace the objective with a short summary, and drop anything that doesn't support this application.
9. Missing or unprofessional contact details
An unusual email address, a missing phone number, or a broken profile link can cost you a callback. Fix: use a simple, professional email, and check that every link works.
10. Exaggerating or listing skills you can't back up
Stretching the truth tends to come out in interviews, reference checks, or on the job. Fix: only include what you could discuss confidently. Strong, honest evidence is more persuasive than a long list of claims.
A 60-second self-check
- Does the top third of the page show why I fit this role?
- Do my bullets show outcomes, not just duties?
- Is it a single column with standard headings?
- Are my dates and formatting consistent?
- Is every claim something I can explain in an interview?
Try it on your own resume
TailorFit helps with the first draft of a tailored resume, but the checklist above still applies. Review and edit what it gives you.
Tailor my resume →