Top Mistakes To Avoid When Creating Your First Resume

When you step into the job market, the first thing that speaks for you is your resume. If you mess it up, you might miss out on interviews. A strong CV is what shows your skills clearly. It is meant to grab attention. Many beginners usually overload it with fluff, and they end up skipping key details. In this article, we will break down the top mistakes they usually make and how you can dodge them. By the end of it all, you will understand how to craft a resume that stands out.

5 Major Mistakes You Should Not Make With Your CV

Before you craft your resume, here are some mistakes you shouldn’t find yourself in.

Skipping Research on Job Requirements

Don’t make the mistake of jumping straight into writing without checking the job ad. This is a big slip that many make. Employers want resumes that match their needs. So, make sure you read the description carefully and pull out key skills like “teamwork” or “Excel proficiency.” This way, it will show that you’re a fit. To make things a lot easier, you can use tools to Create a CV that aligns with the role.

Using a Generic Template

One thing about free templates online is that, though they may seem easy to fill out, they’re usually just bland. It is easy for recruiters to spot them a mile away. So, make sure you customize your CV to reflect your style. You can add sections like “Projects” if you’re new to show your strengths. Better yet, you can use MakeMyCV to build one that fits your field.

Ignoring Formatting and Design

Even if you write a solid resume, and you have messy formatting, it will kill it. Recruiters actually check these things. So, don’t make the mistake of missing margins or using tiny fonts that make your CV hard to read. Use a clean font like Arial, size 11-12. Then make sure you add white space for breathing space. This way, it looks professional. You should also ensure that you use bold format for job titles and dates. Bullet points also make your CV clear to read. Also, remember to proofread to avoid any typos or misspellings.

Overloading with Irrelevant Info

Some people will list every single job they’ve had since high school, but it’s too much. So, make sure you focus on the relevant experience. If you’re applying for marketing, keep it to skills that are relevant in that area. You can mention the achievements and milestones you made during that experience. For instance, you can say you increased sales by 20% when you worked in that field.

Forgetting to Customize for ATS

It is important that you use ATS to scan for keywords so your resume doesn’t get lost in the system. Many companies use ATS to scan for keywords. They use it to match the job ad’s language. So, use terms like “project management” if it is listed. This way, you pass the filter. Aside from that, include your contact info at the top so that it is easy for them to reach you.

Conclusion

Now, these are some top mistakes you should avoid making. Remember to do your research on the job you’re interested in. Also, make sure you’re selling your skills and that your CV turns heads. Once you can keep these tips, you won’t have issues landing your dream job.