Your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer. A single mistake can cost you the opportunity to land an interview. To help you stand out for the right reasons, here are the top 10 resume mistakes to avoid:

1. Typos and Grammatical Errors
Even small spelling mistakes can make you appear careless. Proofread carefully and consider using tools like Grammarly or asking a friend to review your resume.

2. Using a Generic Resume
Submitting the same resume for every job is a common mistake. Tailor your resume to highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to the specific role.

3. Focusing on Duties Instead of Achievements

Listing job duties doesn’t show your impact. Use quantifiable achievements (e.g., “Increased sales by 25% in six months”) to demonstrate your value.

4. Including Irrelevant Information
Avoid personal details like age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies. Focus on experiences and skills that align with the position.

5. Poor Formatting
A cluttered or hard-to-read resume can turn off recruiters. Stick to clean layouts, consistent fonts, and clear headings.

6. Using an Unprofessional Email Address
Your contact information should be professional. Avoid nicknames or outdated email providers; ideally, use a variation of your name.

7. Being Too Vague
Statements like “Responsible for project management” are too general. Specify the scope, tools used, and measurable results.

8. Omitting Keywords
Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter resumes. Include relevant keywords from the job description to increase your chances of passing the initial screening.

9. Making It Too Long or Too Short
Aim for a concise yet comprehensive resume—typically one page for early-career professionals and up to two pages for experienced candidates.

10. Forgetting a Professional Summary
A brief, compelling summary at the top of your resume can quickly show recruiters who you are and what you bring to the table.

Avoiding these common mistakes can dramatically improve your chances of landing an interview. Remember, your resume is your personal marketing tool—make it clear, professional, and tailored to each opportunity.