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HBCU Careers Magazine
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Common Resume Mistakes
So far we’ve discussed how to construct an effective resume. The
following is a list of what NOT to do when creating your resume.
• Do not use a resume wizard or template because it looks generic
• Do not jeopardize your integrity by falsifying or exaggerating
information or misrepresenting your educational background
• Do not rely on the employer to determine where you would best
fit in the organization. It’s up to you to demonstrate how your
skills, abilities and experience meet an employer’s needs.
• Do not focus on what you wish to gain. Instead, focus on how
you can contribute.
• Do not use personal pronouns (I, me, my)
• Do not use abbreviations
• Do not use an unprofessional e-mail address (such as crazychick@...)
Resume Checklist
Before you submit your resume to an employer take a moment to complete the below Resume Checklist
to make sure that your resume is flawless and ready to go!
Does my e-mail address sound professional?
Is my contact information accurate?
Have I tailored my resume to the particular job I am seeking?
Is my objective focused and precise?
Have I used strong action verbs to describe my contributions and achievements?
Have I used parallel verbs of the same form, voice and tense?
Have I done a good job of describing my work experience/skills in terms of contributions and/or
outcomes? (Example: “Secured $2,000 in donations for local charity fundraiser using public speaking
skills” is a much more effective and powerful statement than “Helped promote fundraiser”)
Is the overall appearance of my resume aesthetically pleasing, well-organized and balanced?
Have I been consistent with the format of my resume in terms of spacing, bolding, indenting, etc.?
Have I given my resume to several people to review?
Have I thoroughly proofread a printed version of my resume?
Is my resume error free and ready to provide to an employer?