7 Common Job Application Mistakes That Will Send Your Resume to the No Pile

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By Lisa Hutchinson

Topics: Job Search

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7_Common_Job_Application_Mistakes_That_Send_Your_Resume_to_the_No_PileToday’s job search is complex, to say the least. The job application process varies with every individual company and position, leading to the need to have several different versions of your resume. As well, you’ll need to account for how your resume appeals to different industries and their unique requirements.

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Yet, even when you’re on top of all these details, often it’s the little mistakes that decide the fate of your job application. Read on for seven common mistakes that will send your resume straight to the no pile and learn simple tips to ensure you build good application habits.


1. No Telephone Number Provided

Even with email being so popular, companies still reach out to candidates for interviews by telephone. Many job applicants make the mistake of not providing their telephone numbers, whether it’s their home lines or their cell phone numbers. Whether leaving out this information is an oversight or intentional, you should always include your telephone number in your resume.

You want employers to have multiple ways to contact you, and telephone (as well as email) are the easiest ways for them to do so. That being said, don’t add every number and email address you can be reached at, as it can confuse your employer.


2. Outdated Contact Information

This mistake is often due to candidates not updating their resume frequently. Experts say that you should update your resume every six to 12 months to reflect your new skills and experiences. You should also be updating your resume’s contact information and design to match current standards as well.

Your contact might be outdated in one of two ways. First, check that you haven’t kept your old phone number, address, or email address on your resume. Second, you might be neglecting to include your email or LinkedIn URL. One of the best ways to update your resume in under 10 minutes is to include your online contact information.


3. Applying to a Geographical Location That’s Inaccessible

While it’s great to have ambition in your job search, applying to a geographical location that you can’t commute to easily will likely get your job application rejected. An employer wants to know that you can readily make your commute by bus or car to their work location.

This mistake can also be made by accident as well if you’re applying online. Always pay attention to where the company is located.


4. Addressing Your Cover Letter to the Wrong Employer

Depending on how hard you’re pounding the pavement, you’ll be handling multiple job applications at once. As such, it’s easy to mix up your cover letters. Make sure to always double check that the cover letter you’re sending matches the name and address of the employer your resume is being sent to. Try to build a habit of tackling one job application at a time.


5. Applying to Jobs You Don’t Have Relevant Skills/Experience For

Similar to applying to an inaccessible job location, you should apply only for jobs that your skillset and relevant experience qualify you for. While it’s good to test out potential career paths, employers are looking for candidates who have specific skills and experience that align with the vacant roles.

While applying to advanced jobs or jobs that require specialized skills might be tempting for the tangible benefits, your time is better spent applying to jobs that suit your strengths.


6. Spelling Mistakes

A resume free of spelling and grammar mistakes is much more likely to catch an employer’s attention, but many applicants still don’t take the extra time to proofread their resumes. Make good use of your word processor’s built-in proofreader and ask a friend to give your resume a second read as well.


7. Not Adhering to Application Instructions

Lastly, make sure to thoroughly read and follow your application’s instructions (if there are any). If you miss steps, an employer will notice and assume you don’t have great attention to detail or cared enough about the job to follow the process.

Did you find these common mistakes and tips helpful? Practice good application habits and apply to Liberty Staffing for exciting career opportunities today!


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Lisa Hutchinson

I started with Liberty Staffing in 2004 as the Regional Business Manager of the London office. I have over 20 years of experience in the customer service and retail sectors, as well as leadership experience including Store Management, People Development and Recruiting. In 2016, our London location moved to a larger office in order to accommodate growth of our business, which included adding a Clerical Division.

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