Top Resume Mistakes to Avoid in 2026

In today's competitive job market, your resume needs to do more than list your experience — it needs to tell a compelling story about the value you bring. Unfortunately, many candidates make avoidable mistakes that cost them interviews.

1. Using a One-Size-Fits-All Resume

One of the biggest mistakes is sending the same generic resume to every job. Hiring managers can tell when a resume hasn't been tailored to their specific role. Take the time to customize your resume for each application, highlighting the skills and experiences most relevant to the position.

2. Focusing on Duties Instead of Achievements

Listing job duties tells employers what you were supposed to do. Listing achievements tells them what you actually accomplished. Use quantifiable metrics wherever possible — for example, "Reduced employee turnover by 25% through implementation of new onboarding program."

3. Ignoring Keywords

Most companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes before a human ever sees them. If your resume doesn't include the right keywords from the job description, it may never make it to a hiring manager's desk.

4. Poor Formatting

A cluttered, hard-to-read resume will get passed over quickly. Stick to clean formatting, consistent fonts, and clear section headers. Avoid graphics and complex layouts that ATS systems can't parse.

5. Neglecting Your Summary

Your professional summary is prime real estate at the top of your resume. Use it to create a compelling snapshot of who you are and what you bring to the table.

Get Expert Help

GOHRSolutions offers professional resume review and career coaching services to help you put your best foot forward. Whether you're entering the workforce, making a career change, or aiming for a promotion, we can help you craft a resume that gets results.