1. Using Complex or Over-the-Top Formatting

The Mistake
While you may want your resume to stand out, going overboard with complex formatting or unusual fonts can cause more harm than good. Hiring managers prefer clarity, and if your resume is hard to read or visually cluttered, it could quickly be dismissed.
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How to Fix It
1. Stick to a Simple Layout
Use clear sections and bullet points to make your resume easy to scan.
2. Choose Readable Fonts
Stick to traditional fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman for a clean, professional look.
3. Avoid Excess Graphics
Unless you're in a creative field, it’s best to avoid using too many visuals. Keep it simple and professional.

2. Overloading Your Resume with Unnecessary Information

The Mistake
Your resume should be a concise summary of your relevant experience and skills. Including unnecessary information, such as every job you've had since high school or irrelevant hobbies, can make it harder for hiring managers to quickly see why you're the right fit.
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How to Fix It
1. Focus on Relevant Experience
‍Limit your work experience to the last 10–15 years unless an earlier job is particularly relevant.
2. Highlight Achievements
Focus on your accomplishments rather than just listing job duties.
3. Exclude Irrelevant Information
Don’t include personal details (age, marital status, etc.) or hobbies unless they directly relate to the job

3. Writing a Generic Resume

The Mistake
A generic, one-size-fits-all resume may seem like an easy solution, but it’s one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Every job is different, and a generic resume might not highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position you're applying for.
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How to Fix It
1. Tailor Your Resume
Customize your resume for each job application by emphasising the skills, experiences, and qualifications that directly match the job description.
2. Use Job-Specific Keywords
‍Review the job ad for keywords and incorporate them naturally in your resume. This helps not only with ATS optimization but also shows the hiring manager you're the right fit.
Focus on your accomplishments rather than just listing job duties.