Some mistakes can cause employers to cross you off their list early - Photo: Jobscan
According to a survey from Resume Genius of 625 hiring managers across the United States, three resume signs that can cause employers to write you off early include using an AI-generated resume, frequent job hopping, and unprofessional presentation.
Use AI-generated resumes
More than half (53%) of managers said they were wary of resumes containing AI-generated content, with 20% calling it a “serious issue” that would prevent them from hiring candidates.
“It’s incredibly important that your resume is a true, authentic reflection of the skills and experience you bring,” says Michelle Reisdorf, regional director at recruiting firm Robert Half.
“If you use AI to write a resume in just a few minutes, it shows that you didn’t put a lot of time and effort into the position,” she added.
Reisdorf, who has worked in recruiting for more than 30 years, encourages candidates to use AI to review and edit their resumes, but says they should write a first draft rather than relying solely on AI.
“AI is effective at proofreading and enhancing what candidates have written, but it’s not the only way to create the perfect resume,” she says.
Employers will know if a candidate brings up specific details from previous jobs, or writes in a personal, human, or robotic voice.
Frequent job hopping
Similarly, resumes that show a tendency to frequently job-hop make 50% of managers hesitant to hire. This information is also harder to "cover up".
If you've changed jobs multiple times, you can't lie about your work history. Plus, employers have different definitions of why someone changes jobs so frequently.
Some people may change jobs every 1-2 years. Meanwhile, others believe they should change jobs within a shorter time frame, such as after less than a year of employment.
You probably don't need to go into a lengthy explanation of why you left each time, "because most employers don't need to know that on a resume," says Reisdorf.
“They want to know if you have the skills and experience to do the job well. Your past experiences and commitments to previous jobs are often saved for the interview,” she explains.
However, if there are a few brief sections on your resume, Reisdorf recommends including a brief, 1- to 2-sentence context about your job changes elsewhere.
“Most online job applications will have a space to add or explain your reasons for leaving, after you upload your resume,” she explains. “That’s a safe place to acknowledge any job-hopping, without drawing too much attention.” Otherwise, save any explanation for your reasons for leaving for the interview.
Unprofessional presentation
Another red flag that employers look for in a resume is unprofessional presentation, such as a disorganized layout, using confusing fonts, or simply forgetting to spell check.
Reisdorf says simple, clear resumes are most effective because they are easy to read and understand for most people. This format typically uses a basic black font, fits on one page, and has clearly organized sections for easy identification.
Simply put, you want the employer to focus on your accomplishments, not on your inappropriate typography or messy layout. Even if you want to design a unique and impressive resume, especially in creative industries, there are still some aesthetic rules that you need to follow.
It is also important to check for any spelling or grammar errors before sending your resume. This shows potential employers that you are detail-oriented and conscientious.
“You also want the employer to focus on your skills and experience, not on spelling or formatting errors. Send a CV that makes the employer excited to interview and hopefully hire you,” she adds.
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