7 Mistakes You Should Never Make in Your Resume

A resume is one of the most important documents in the hiring process. It represents who you are, highlighting both your qualifications and your personality. This helps recruiters quickly identify which candidates deserve a closer look.

Yet, the reality is that recruiters still come across countless mistakes in the resumes they receive.Every detail in a resume matters—and even a small slip can cost you an opportunity.

To help your application pass the recruiter’s screening, here are 7 critical mistakes you must avoid in your resume.

1. Typographical Errors (Typos) 

The most common mistake job seekers make is letting typos slip into their resume.Your resume is essentially the “face” you present to recruiters—this is very first impression of you.

This is why even one misplaced letter or punctuation mark can hurt your credibility.Worse, it can even change the meaning of what you’ve written.

See also: Tips to Make a Positive First Impression at Work

To avoid these errors, proofread your resume carefully once it’s done. Better yet, ask a friend to review it before you hit send.

2. Being Overly Creative

Creativity is valuable—especially if you’re applying in industries such as television, startups, e-commerce, or media.

Employers in these fields are usually more flexible about resume formats. Still, it’s important to know the limits—otherwise your resume may come across as “too creative.”

The best approach? Stick to a format that is simple yet modern. Overly designed resumes are risky because Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) may struggle to read them.

An ATS is software recruiters use to automatically screen resumes. If your resume is not ATS-friendly, your chances of moving forward shrink dramatically.

3. Invalid or False Information

Always include information that is accurate and truthful. Never put false or misleading details on your resume. For example, if your GPA is 3.00 but the job requires at least a 3.20, don’t claim a higher score.

Recruiters may not ask for transcripts right away, but the truth will surface—and it could cost you the role.Honesty in small things lays the foundation for bigger opportunities and trust.

See also: Is a Job Fair Just a Formality? Here’s the Truth

4. Making It Too Long

Many applicants make the mistakes of submitting resumes that go on for pages.Some even stretch theirs to four pages—not including the cover letter.

Remember, a resume is not an essay. A lengthy resume won’t improve your chances—in fact, it makes it harder for recruiters to find what really matters.

5. Avoid Sharing Private Information

No matter how unpleasant your previous workplace was, never expose it in your resume.A resume is not the place to stir controversy or reveal company secrets. Be selective and professional about the information you include.

Avoid listing blog addresses, people’s names, or confidential work details—even if you played a key role in them.

6. Including Too Much Information

Don’t overload your resume with unnecessary details. For example, you might mention your experience with freelancing and involvement in student organizations since college.Or that you won Best Vocalist at your faculty’s band festival.

While achievements are admirable, not all of them need to be included. Too much information can bury the key strengths you want employers to notice.

See also: Job Openings at Astra Group’s SERA in July 2025

Always tailor your resume to the position you’re applying for. Leave out achievements and experiences that are not directly relevant.

Save unrelated achievements for the interview, when you are asked to share more about yourself.

7. Forgetting the Cover Letter

A resume and a cover letter are two distinct documents. Many companies don’t explicitly require a cover letter.

However, including one gives you an edge and sets you apart from other applicants.

As the name suggests, a cover letter provides a more complete picture of you, adding context that your resume doesn’t cover in detail.

Think of it as a professional self-promotion tool—polished, concise, and free from unnecessary fluff.

And there you have it—7 mistakes you should never make in your resume. Beyond your application, it is equally important to target companies with a healthy work culture and clear career growth opportunities.Choose an employer with a solid reputation in its field, such as PT Serasi Autoraya (SERA).

See also: Types of Company Culture You Should Know, with Examples

SERA, founded on March 22, 1990, has grown into one of Indonesia’s leaders in transportation, auction, and logistics. As part of the Astra Group, the company regularly opens job opportunities for various roles.

For more details on SERA’s job openings, visit the official website at www.sera.astra.co.id or go directly to https://career.sera.astra.co.id/.