Tag: Resume

Top 7 Resume Mistakes That Are Costing You Job Interviews in 2025. In today’s ultra-competitive job market, a single mistake on your resume can mean the difference between getting a callback or being ignored. Employers in Qatar, UAE, and across the Gulf are using advanced ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) and human screening to find the best candidates fast. If your CV isn’t working for you, it’s probably working against you.

7 Resume Mistakes to Avoid in 2025.

Here are 7 resume mistakes that job seekers still make in 2025—and how to fix them to land more interviews.

1. Using an Outdated Resume Format

7 Resume Mistakes: If you’re still sending out resumes in Times New Roman with no structure or style, you’re in trouble. Recruiters expect modern, ATS-friendly designs that are easy to scan.

The Fix: Use clean, professional templates with readable fonts like Poppins or Roboto. Prioritise structure with clear headings: Profile, Work Experience, Education, Skills, and Languages. Online tools like Canva, Rezi, and Resume.io offer optimised templates for Gulf jobs

2. No Keywords or Job-Specific Customisation

Hiring systems now scan for keywords before a human ever sees your resume. If your CV doesn’t match the job post, you’re out—fast.

The Fix: Customise your resume for every job. Pull out 4–5 keywords from the job listing (e.g., “project management,” “sales targets,” “Arabic fluency”) and naturally weave them into your resume.

3. Listing Responsibilities Instead of Achievements

Hiring managers don’t want to know what your duties were—they want to know what you achieved.

Weak Example: “Responsible for customer service operations.”

Strong Example: “Handled customer service for 100+ daily inquiries, achieving 95% satisfaction rate over 12 months.”

The Fix: Use metrics, percentages, or timeframes to show real impact. Don’t just describe the job—show how well you did it.

4. Spelling & Grammar Mistakes

Believe it or not, simple typos can destroy your credibility. Employers often reject resumes with poor grammar without reading further.

The Fix: Run your resume through Grammarly or ask Chatgpt to proofread it. Don’t rely on autocorrect—always read it yourself or ask a trusted friend to double-check.

5. No Contact Info or Unprofessional Email

You’d be surprised how many job seekers forget to include updated contact info—or worse, still use emails like cuteboyxx@gmail.com.

The Fix: Always include:

• Phone number with country code (e.g., +974 for Qatar)
• Professional email address (e.g., yourname@gmail.com)
• LinkedIn URL (optional but impressive)

6. No Career Summary or Profile Section.

In 2025, employers skim resumes fast. If your experience isn’t obvious in the first few seconds, you’ll be skipped.

The Fix: Start with a 3–4 line professional summary. It should clearly say who you are, what you do, and what your values are.

Example: “Experienced logistics coordinator with 6+ years in warehouse operations and inventory control across the UAE. Proficient in SAP, team supervision, and supply chain optimisation.”

7. Using Clichés and Buzzwords

“I’m a motivated, hardworking, team player with a can-do attitude.”

That doesn’t say anything. These phrases are outdated and overused.

The Fix: Replace vague words with results. Show proof of your skills instead of just naming them.

Example: “Led 10-member sales team to exceed quarterly targets by 35%, earning team award for top regional performance.”

Resume Quality Checklist

7 Resume Mistakes: Before sending your resume:

• Is it job-specific and keyword-optimised?
• Are there zero spelling or grammar errors?
• Are your achievements measurable and clear?
• Is your layout clean and mobile-readable?
• Have you included all key contact info?

Bonus Tip: Create a Master Resume

7 Resume Mistakes: Maintain one long, detailed resume with all your experience and create tailored, shorter versions for each job application. This saves time while staying targeted.

Final Word: Don’t Let Small Mistakes Block Big Opportunities

Your resume is your first impression, and in a world of instant screening, it needs to be perfect, fast, and relevant. Fix these 7 Resume Mistakes and you’ll already be ahead of 90% of other job seekers in the Gulf region.

12 Resume Mistakes and How to Avoid Them. Your resume is your first chance to make a great impression on potential employers. Even a small mistake can cost you an opportunity, while a well-crafted resume can help you stand out from other candidates.

Below, we’ll discuss 12 common resume mistakes, why they matter, and, most importantly, how to fix them in detail to boost your chances of landing a job.

12 Resume Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Spelling & Grammar Errors

Why It’s a Problem: A resume with typos or grammar mistakes gives the impression that you lack attention to detail or professionalism. Employers may assume you will make similar mistakes on the job.

How to Fix Resume Mistakes:

✔ Proofread multiple times. Don’t just rely on spell-check software. Read your resume carefully, word by word and line by line.
✔ Use tools like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor to catch mistakes.
✔ Read it out loud—this helps identify awkward phrasing or missing words.
✔ Ask someone else to review it—a fresh pair of eyes can spot errors you might have missed.
✔ Print it out—reading on paper often helps catch mistakes that aren’t obvious on a screen.

2. Using a Generic Resume for Every Job

Why It’s a Problem: Employers seek candidates whose experience and skills match their job posting. A one-size-fits-all resume makes you look disinterested and unfocused.

How to Fix Resume Mistakes:

✔ Customize your resume for each application using keywords from the job description.
✔ Highlight relevant experience—don’t include every job you’ve ever had. Focus on the ones that are most closely related to the role.
✔ Adjust your summary statement to align with each employer’s needs.
✔ Use the same job title mentioned in the job description—this improves Applicant Tracking System (ATS) ranking

3. Not Highlighting Key Achievements

Why It’s a Problem: A resume that only lists responsibilities doesn’t show how you made an impact in previous roles. Employers want to see measurable success.

How to Fix Resume Mistakes:

✔ Instead of just listing duties, show results with quantifiable achievements (e.g., “Increased sales by 30% in six months”).
✔ Use STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to craft impactful bullet points.
✔ Use strong action verbs like Led, Developed, Increased, Reduced, and Managed instead of weak words like “Assisted” or “Helped.

4. Poor Formatting & Layout

Why It’s a Problem: Messy formatting makes it hard to read, and recruiters will likely skip over a cluttered resume.

How to Fix Resume Mistakes:

✔ Use a clean, modern font (e.g., Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman, or Lato). Avoid script or fancy fonts.
✔ Keep the font size between 10-12 points for body text and 14-16 points for section headings.
✔ Use consistent formatting—bold job titles, italicize company names, and use bullet points for descriptions.
✔ Use white space effectively—leave enough margin space for readability.
✔ Stick to a one-page resume (for entry-level jobs) or two pages (for experienced professionals).

5. Including Irrelevant Work Experience

Why It’s a Problem: Hiring managers don’t need unrelated work experience that doesn’t showcase relevant skills. It makes your resume unfocused and cluttered.

How to Fix Resume Mistakes:

✔ Only list relevant experience—focus on jobs, internships, or projects that align with the position.
✔ If changing careers, emphasize transferable skills (e.g., leadership, problem-solving, teamwork).
✔ For students or freshers, highlight internships, certifications, or freelance projects instead of unrelated jobs.

6. Listing Duties Instead of Achievements

Why It’s a Problem: Recruiters want to see results, not just a list of tasks you performed.

How to Fix Resume Mistakes:

✔ Instead of saying “Managed social media accounts”, say “Grew social media engagement by 50% in six months.”
✔ Use numbers and percentages to show impact.
✔ Start each bullet point with an action verb and avoid passive phrasing.

7. Using an Unprofessional Email Address

Why It’s a Problem: An unprofessional email address like coolguy123@gmail.com or princess_kitty@yahoo.com can hurt your credibility.

How to Fix Resume Mistakes:

✔ Use a simple, professional email address like firstnamelastname@gmail.com.
✔ Avoid using nicknames, special characters, or numbers that are hard to remember.

8. Making Your Resume Too Long

Why It’s a Problem: Recruiters skim resumes in 6–10 seconds. If it’s too long, they may miss key information.

How to Fix Resume Mistakes:

✔ Keep it 1 page (for freshers) and 2 pages max (for experienced professionals).
✔ Summarize older jobs in 1-2 bullet points.
✔ Remove outdated skills (e.g., Microsoft Word proficiency is now assumed).

9. Failing to Use Keywords

Why It’s a Problem: Most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that filter out resumes without the right keywords.

How to Fix Resume Mistakes:

✔ Find keywords in the job description and naturally include them in your resume.
✔ Use job title-specific phrases (e.g., “SEO Optimization” for digital marketing roles).
✔ Avoid keyword stuffing—use them naturally.

10. Adding Too Much Personal Information

Why It’s a Problem: Employers don’t need to know about your marital status, religion, or hobbies unless they are relevant.

How to Fix Resume Mistakes:

✔ Include only essential information—Name, Phone, Email, LinkedIn profile.
✔ Remove irrelevant personal details to save space.

11. Not Including a Strong Summary or Objective

Why It’s a Problem: A weak or missing career summary means recruiters won’t immediately see your value.

How to Fix Resume Mistakes:

✔ Write a 2-3 sentence summary showcasing your skills, experience, and career goals.
✔ Example:
✅ Results-driven digital marketer with 5+ years of experience in SEO, PPC, and content marketing. Proven track record of increasing website traffic by 200%.”

12. Not Updating Your Resume Regularly

Why It’s a Problem: If your resume does not reflect your latest experience, you might miss out on job opportunities.

How to Fix Resume Mistakes:

✔ Update your resume every 6 months with new skills, certifications, and experience.
✔ Keep a master resume and tweak it for each application.

Final Thoughts

Your resume is your ticket to your dream job. Avoiding these 12 common mistakes will increase your chances of making a great first impression.

🔹 Proofread your resume carefully.
🔹 Use a clean and professional layout.
🔹 Tailor your resume for each job application.
🔹 Highlight your achievements, not just duties.

 Need help with your resume? Let Mahad Manpower assist you in crafting a winning CV and securing top job opportunities.

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Draughting Your Resume. A potential employer often forms their first impression of you through your resume, which can significantly impact your chances of securing an interview. For job seekers in Qatar, where competition is fierce, crafting a standout resume is essential. Unfortunately, many candidates unknowingly make critical mistakes that can hurt their chances.

At Mahad Manpower Agency, we aim to help professionals create resumes that showcase their skills and achievements effectively. Here are five common mistakes to avoid when draughting your resume, along with tips to ensure you present your best self to employers.

5 Common Mistakes To Avoid When Drafting Your Resume

1. Using a Generic Template

Common Mistakes: Many job seekers use generic templates without tailoring their resumes to specific roles or industries. Using a generic template can make your resume appear impersonal and irrelevant to hiring managers.

Why It’s a Problem: Employers in Dubai’s competitive job market look for candidates who demonstrate a clear understanding of the role and company. A generic resume fails to show that you’ve invested time in aligning your skills with their needs.

How to Avoid It:

• Customise Your Resume: Tailor your resume to each job application by highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
• Use keywords: Incorporate keywords from the job description to demonstrate your suitability.
• Focus on Value: Showcase how your achievements align with the company’s goals and values.

Pro Tip: A tailored resume stands out because it shows you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the role.

2. Focusing on Responsibilities Instead of Achievements

Common Mistakes: Listing job responsibilities rather than accomplishments is a common resume error. While it’s important to outline what you’ve done, focusing solely on duties doesn’t convey the impact you’ve made.

Why It’s a Problem: Employers want to see how you’ve contributed to your previous roles. Responsibilities are generic, but achievements highlight your unique value.

How to Avoid It:

• Quantify Results: Use numbers to showcase achievements (e.g., “Increased sales by 20% in six months”).
• Highlight Impact: Focus on how your work benefitted the company, team, or clients.
• Be Specific: Replace vague statements with concrete examples.

Example: Instead of saying, “Managed a team of sales associates,” say, “Led a team of 10 sales associates, achieving a 25% increase in quarterly revenue.”

3. Including Irrelevant Information

Common Mistakes: Adding unnecessary details, such as hobbies, outdated skills, or personal information, can clutter your resume and detract from your qualifications.

Why It’s a Problem: Recruiters spend an average of six seconds reviewing a resume. Irrelevant information distracts them from your core qualifications and wastes valuable space.

How to Avoid It:

• Prioritise Relevance: Include only information that directly supports your application.
• Avoid Personal Details: Skip outdated practices like listing your marital status or a photo unless required by local norms.
• Focus on Current Skills: Highlight skills that are in demand and relevant to the job.

Pro Tip: Use a clean, professional format that emphasises your qualifications without unnecessary clutter.

4. Neglecting Proper Formatting and Design

Common Mistakes: A poorly formatted resume with inconsistent fonts, excessive colours, or a lack of structure can make it difficult for employers to read and understand your qualifications.

Why It’s a Problem: Recruiters may dismiss your resume if it’s visually unappealing or hard to navigate. A cluttered design can overshadow even the most impressive accomplishments.

How to Avoid It:

• Use a Simple Layout: Stick to a clean, professional format with clear headings and bullet points.
• Choose a Professional Font: Opt for easy-to-read fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
• Be Consistent: Maintain uniformity in font size, spacing, and formatting.

Pro Tip: Save your resume as a PDF to ensure the formatting remains consistent across devices.

5. Overlooking Proofreading and Updates

Common Mistakes: Typos, grammatical errors, and outdated information can create a negative impression and make you appear careless.

Why It’s a Problem: Employers value attention to detail. Errors on your resume suggest a lack of diligence and professionalism.

How to Avoid It:

• Proofread Thoroughly: Review your resume multiple times or ask a trusted friend to check for errors.
• Keep It Updated: Regularly update your resume to reflect your most recent roles and achievements.
• Check for Consistency: Ensure dates, job titles, and bullet points are accurate and consistent.

Pro Tip: Use online tools like Grammarly to catch common spelling and grammar mistakes.

Bonus Tips for a Standout Resume

a. Include a Strong Summary Statement

Start your resume with a concise summary highlighting your key skills, experiences, and career goals. This provides recruiters with a quick snapshot of your value.

Example: “Experienced marketing professional with 5+ years of success in digital campaigns, SEO optimisation, and brand strategy. Proven ability to drive engagement and increase ROI.”

b. Showcase Transferable Skills

If you’re changing industries or roles, emphasise skills that apply across sectors, such as leadership, communication, or project management.

c. Leverage Keywords

Use industry-specific keywords to ensure your resume passes Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and catches the attention of recruiters.

Conclusion

Common Mistakes: Crafting a strong resume is a crucial step in securing your dream job. By avoiding these common mistakes and focusing on clarity, relevance, and professionalism, you can create a resume that captures the attention of employers and sets you apart from the competition.

At Mahad Manpower Agency in Qatar, we are committed to helping job seekers succeed. Whether you need guidance on resume writing, interview preparation, or job search strategies, our expertise ensures you’re fully equipped to excel in today’s competitive job market. Contact Mahad Manpower today to take the next step in your career journey!