You can connect with employers through your resume, but not if it gets blocked, filtered, or thrashed away. Since there are so many applicants for jobs, a majority of resumes aren’t read. Many applications get disqualified at a glance because of typos, formatting issues, or unwanted additions. Some of the reasons these forms are filtered or put aside may surprise you. Here are some reasons why your resume is getting rejected:
- ATS BOT rejects the resume
Uploading a resume and sending it to companies often triggers ATS filters. There are different ways ATS bots filter based on the parameters set by recruiters. However, they may also falsely flag your resume for plagiarism, incorrect jargon use, formatting issues, and other things without justification. Instead of getting your resume read it might be redirected to the bottom of the pile and never seen. To avoid resume bots, get the format right. Make sure you follow the file type specified in the posting.
- It’s lengthy or doesn’t reach key information easily
When you have more than 10 years of experience, the most accepted international standard is two pages. However, for less than 10 years of experience, one page might make sense. It doesn’t matter how long or short the resume is, the most relevant information should be as early as possible, and easy to see.
- It’s stuffed with fluff or cliche terms
Over time, many terms become tiresome or lose their meaning. Self-motivation, for instance, sounds good on paper, but what does it really mean? Using buzzwords like team player, dynamic skills, or results-driven comes with this risk. Share stories of your workplace accomplishments to communicate these ideas. Consider listing skills that create a clear image of you performing your best at the job rather than concepts like being a “go-getter”.
- It contains unrelated sections or pictures
In addition to hobbies, your age, and a conclusion, charts, graphs, and personal images are rarely asked for and are not considered appropriate additions to resumes. Adding a logo or images or design elements on a resume might cause a bot to filter it out. The risk isn’t worth it if you can’t stand out effectively with these uncommon elements. Follow the job posting’s instructions when writing a resume.
- It has typos or grammar mistakes
Most resumes are disqualified by grammar mistakes or typos. It can happen to anyone but don’t neglect to proofread. When you customize your resume for each job you apply for, a misspelled word or missing space can slip through. A resume writer could help you with common mistakes, or you could use grammar software.
- The relevant info is not presented clearly
Making a general resume instead of tailoring it to each job application has this problem. A work history that covers too much can cloud out what’s relevant to the job. A gap in work history may cause some robots to discount resumes if not presented correctly. It may be necessary to make some cuts to convey your potential quickly and concisely.
- It has an unprofessional email address or delivery
The problem isn’t always the resume, but where it came from. It can hurt your image as a serious applicant if you have a joke or personal email address. Also, if the resume wasn’t uploaded to the appropriate place, it wastes an opportunity to demonstrate clear directions.
Stay tuned and follow me for more such actionable #careerinsightsv
✍️ Connect with me to get a professionally written resume, cover letter & LinkedIn profile optimised.