5 Resume Mistakes You Might Be Making (and How to Fix Them)
You’re smart. You’re capable. You’re more than qualified. So why is your resume getting ignored like a message from your ex during Mercury Retrograde? 👀
As a former recruiter, I’ve seen hundreds (maybe thousands?) of resumes and I can tell you this:
It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being clear, confident, and compelling.
Here are five common resume mistakes I see all the time - and what you can do to fix them today.
1. You’re writing for a robot (instead of a real person)
Yes, Applicant Tracking Systems are real.
No, you don’t need to write your resume like you’re programming a toaster.
Fix it:
Use keywords from the job description strategically - but make sure your resume still looks & sounds human. Think: clear, active language with a professional (yet warm) tone. You’re not a bot. Don’t sound like one.
2. You’re listing tasks - not results
“Managed calendar and scheduled meetings.” Cool. So did 2 million other people.
Fix it:
Use the WHO method:
What did you do?
How did you do it?
Outcome - what changed because of your work?
For example:
“Streamlined a high-volume executive calendar by coordinating 40+ weekly meetings, reducing scheduling conflicts by 50%.” Now that tells me something.
PS: I created a worksheet designed to help you reformat your existing bullet points into WHO-style declarations.
3. Your formatting is... chaotic
Tiny fonts, confusing layouts, walls of text - if reviewers have to squint to read your resume, more than likely they are going to click “reject”.
Fix it:
Use a clean, modern layout with enough white space to breathe. Prioritize readability over design. No need to reinvent the wheel - just make it easy for someone to skim and want to keep reading.
4. You’re underselling yourself
If your resume reads like a humble apology, it’s not doing you any favors.
Fix it:
Use confident, clear language. Avoid “helped with,” “supported,” or “assisted” unless absolutely necessary. Start with action verbs. Quantify where you can. Own your brilliance. (Even if it makes you squirm a little 💛)
5. You’re trying to tell your whole life story
Resumes are not memoirs. They’re highlight reels.
Fix it:
Tailor your resume to each “job family” you are applying for. Cut anything irrelevant. Lead with what’s most aligned to the role. You don’t need to cram in every job or skill - just the ones that get you in the door.
Need a second set of eyes?
If your resume could use a little ✨ career fairy godmother ✨ energy, I’ve got you.
From now through August 3, my Resume Review is $30 off - just $99 (normally $129) with code “30OFF”.
It’s a full-on glow-up for your resume, with a step-by-step strategy to get you noticed.
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TL;DR?
Your resume isn’t broken. It probably just needs a little clarity, confidence, and coaching. You’ve got this - and I’m here if you need backup 💛
