10 Things HR's Don't Like in Your Resume

Fresher Jobs

06 February 2023

5 min read

Do you feel your job applications have vanished into the Internet black hole? 
Do you need help to get interviews?

If the answer is Yes, there is something wrong with your resume.
Don't worry. Even seasoned experts make resume blunders. 

The average time the recruiter spends on any resume is only six seconds. And your resume is your virtual personality a potential employer sees, and GetWork understands that you want to show off your skills that get you an interview—and a job.

 

Let's "WOW" the recruiter by avoiding resume blunders when writing or updating a resume:

  

1. "One-Size-Fits-All" Strategy

 A boilerplate CV you send in response to numerous job postings is a surefire method to get your application thrown out. You're interested in something other than spending time crafting your CV.

 Recruiters appreciate it when you take the time to tailor your CV to their company. You must demonstrate why you are a good fit for the role and the organization.

 

2. Unprofessional Email

 Using "king.17@domain.com" as your email address might have been entertaining in college, but it won't fly on your resume or business card. Shared family email names like "john-family-est-2010@domain.com" are just as unacceptable as email addresses that are sexist or racially insensitive. To better organize your job hunt correspondence, set up a free email account with a service like Gmail. Use your full name as it appears on your résumé and LinkedIn page in your email address wherever possible. 

 Use "jack.jones@domain.com" as an example.

 

 3. Outdated or Irrelevant Social Media Profiles

 Do not put on your resume any links to social media profiles that you use infrequently, have content that is not professional or do not pertain to your current career aspirations. 

If you're going to put your social media handle on your resume, make sure it reflects your brand and helps to prove why you're qualified for the position.

 Furthermore, if you have a professional online presence on a site like LinkedIn or GitHub, include the link to that profile at the top of your resume to make sure that potential employers can view your online portfolio or blog regardless of the device they're using.

 Pro Tip:  Those who work in creative fields should think about making a CV with a mobile-responsive design.

4. Unnecessary Buzzwords

 While it's crucial to add relevant keywords from the job descriptions you're interested in on your resume, there are better ideas than cramming it with buzzwords. Ensure that incorporating keywords seems natural when you read your resume aloud. If you purposely pack keywords or buzzwords into your resume, it will be painfully obvious to the recruiter, not to mention a major turnoff.

 

5. Poorly Crafted Career Objective

 As professionals, we've all read those clichéd resume objective statements like, "searching for chances that will allow me to maximize my skills." Suppose you want to get the attention of hiring managers. Your resume needs to be as concise as possible, and a statement like "I am seeking a career that will allow me to utilize my skills and experience" wastes space. Put in its place the generic "objective" that most people use, a "professional summary," also called a "career statement" or "career summary," which provides a concise review of your qualifications. 

Pro Tip:  Summarize your relevant qualifications and career achievements and explain why you are a good fit for the position you are applying for in a few lines.

 

6. Irrelevant Personal Information 

Including irrelevant personal information in your resume is not recommended. It can be distracting and take away from the professional content of your resume. Additionally, it can make it difficult for employers to focus on the skills and qualifications most relevant to the position. Keeping your resume focused on relevant qualifications and accomplishments is best.

 

Examples of irrelevant personal information in a resume include: 

• -Marital status
• -Religious beliefs
• -Political Affiliation
• -Height and weight
• -Age or date of birth
• -Social, Security Number
• -Personal References
• -Photos.
   

7. Outdated Resume Format

Using an outdated resume format could be a mistake when applying for a job because it could make your resume appear dated, unprofessional, and half-hearted. Obsolete formats often feature outdated or visually confusing designs that are difficult to read and can give the impression that you need to update your skills or explore newer application methods. 

Pro Tip: To make sure your resume stands out, use GetWork's up-to-date format and templates and keep your resume as concise and organized as possible.

 

8. Highlighting Job Responsibilities Only, Not Achievements

Your work experience section includes your job responsibilities and accomplishments for each position. Your accomplishments are distinct initiatives that can help employers recognize your value as an employee. 

 Including accomplishments on your resume can help you stand out from other applicants who may have previously completed comparable responsibilities. Aim to link each job obligation or assignment to a notable accomplishment demonstrating to hiring managers how your previous work performance benefited your employers.

 

9. Grammatical Errors and Formatting Mistakes 

 Carefully check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation typos before sending your resume to potential employers. Sending a neatly formatted, well-written CV to potential employers shows initiative and makes a good impression. 

 In the same way, your resume should be formatted sensibly, with legible fonts and ample white space. Traditional resume typefaces include Times New Roman, Arial, and Georgia. If you want your resume to get read, you should avoid utilizing flashy colors and images to draw attention away from your talents and experience.

 
10. File Mislabelling

 Sending a résumé to a prospective employer by email has become the norm now. Electronic applications require careful consideration of the resume file name. To save the file, type your name followed by "resume" and click "Save." If you keep your application with this name, it will be easy for recruiters to find it later.
 

Your CV is the tool you use to build your professional existence. Could you make an effort to make it appealing?

 

Explore the GetWork resume samples, and let us know if you need assistance.

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