Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid in Your Resume and Cover Letter

Cover letter and CV serve as a prospective employer's first impression of you. Even minor errors can cost you the chance. Further, these small mistakes can make a negative impression on hiring or recruiting managers. The top ten errors to avoid are detailed below:

1. Grammatical and typographical errors

Spelling and grammar errors are the most obvious signs of lack of professionalism. Always use grammar checking techniques or proofread your writing.

2. Adding unnecessary information

Always add your experience and skills related to the position. Steer clear of outdated jobs and inappropriate interests.

3. Employing a generic model

Customise your cover letter and CV for each and every job application. Since, employers or hiring managers can quickly recognize a copy-paste job.

4. Insufficient keywords

Applicant tracking systems (ATS) are used by many businesses so as to filter the applicant’s resumes. In order to get pass ATS filters, use appropriate key words or terms from the job description.

5. Excessively long or short

A resume should be no more than one page. However, in the case of experienced professionals, two pages are acceptable. A cover letter should not exceed one page in length.

6. Incorrect contact details 

Always cross-check the contact details provided are correct. Otherwise, the possibilities for missing the opportunities will be higher.  

7. An unprofessional email address

Use a frank and straightforward, business like email address. Steer clear of unusual or outdated email addresses.

8. Emphasising obligations rather than achievements

Results are important to employers. Highlight your accomplishments and experiences rather than just your responsibilities.

9. Not Customising the cover letter

A common "Dear Hiring Manager" won't make a strong effect on hiring managers. Include your job title and organization name to make it exclusively yours.

10. The omission of a cover letter

A strong cover letter delivers you a benefit, even if it is non-compulsory. Use it to demonstrate your desire and appropriateness for the job position.

How Skilwize Helps Create the Ideal Resume and Cover Letter

Skilwize offers professional templates, AI-powered techniques, and expert advice to help job seekers avoid distinctive errors associated to resume and cover letter. With integrated ATS-friendly formatting and grammar checks, it guarantees documents free of errors. Skilwize offers customised resume-building services that support users in highlighting accomplishments, utilising powerful keywords, and professionally organising content. Through individualised coaching, cover letters are improved to demonstrate passion and aptness. Employers are drawn to well-designed as well as personalised applications created using Skilwize. Skilwize streamlines the job application method, increasing your chances of getting interviews, and other opportunities, and landing your ideal position, regardless of your level of expertise.