Resume Mistakes to Avoid: A Practical NZ Checklist

A strong resume or CV makes it easier for recruiters and employers to see how your experience fits a role. Small problems such as unclear formatting, generic claims or missed keywords can make that harder, even when you have the right skills.

In New Zealand, both “CV” and “resume” are commonly understood. Whichever term you use, the goal is the same: create a clear, accurate and tailored summary of the value you could bring to the role. Use the guidance below to avoid common mistakes and prepare an application that works for people and recruitment technology.

1. Making your resume too long or difficult to scan

Hiring managers and recruiters need to find relevant information quickly. Keep the layout clear, prioritise recent and relevant experience, and use concise bullet points instead of dense paragraphs.

A one-page resume can work well for students, graduates and people early in their careers. Two pages may be more useful when you have broader experience. The right length depends on what you need to show, so focus on relevance rather than reaching a fixed page count.

• Use clear headings such as Professional summary, Skills, Work experience and Education.
• Put the most relevant information near the top of each section.
• Use consistent dates, spacing and bullet styles.
• Remove older or unrelated detail that does not strengthen this application.

2. Using formatting that people or an ATS may struggle to read

An applicant tracking system, or ATS, is software that helps employers receive, organise and search applications. A simple structure can help the system read your information accurately and also makes the document easier for a person to review.

Avoid relying on design elements to carry important information. Complex tables, text boxes, graphics, icons and multi-column layouts may not be handled consistently by every system. Use a readable font, standard section headings and a logical one-column order.

Follow the file instructions in the job advertisement or application portal. If no format is specified, a clearly structured Word document is often a practical option. A PDF can preserve the layout, but you should check that all text remains selectable and that the portal accepts PDF files.

• Use standard headings and place contact details in the main document body.
• Write acronyms in full the first time where appropriate.
• Use keywords only when they accurately describe your experience.
• Do not hide keywords or copy the entire job advertisement into your resume.

3. Sending the same resume for every role

A generic resume makes the reader work harder to see the match. Tailoring does not mean rewriting everything. It means reviewing the job advertisement, identifying the most important requirements and making your relevant evidence easy to find.

For example, if an advertisement asks for someone “experienced in fast-paced warehouse environments”, a relevant bullet could say: “Picked and packed customer orders accurately in a fast-paced distribution centre while meeting daily dispatch deadlines.” Only use wording that truthfully reflects your experience.

You can also reorder bullet points so the strongest match appears first. Limited bold formatting can draw attention to an important role-relevant phrase such as “fast-paced distribution centre” or “experienced in customer complaint resolution”. Use this sparingly, because too much emphasis makes the page harder to scan.

• Identify the role’s main skills, responsibilities and qualifications.
• Use the employer’s terminology where it is accurate and natural.
• Move your strongest matching achievements higher in the document.
• Remove details that distract from the role you want.

4. Relying on buzzwords instead of evidence

Phrases such as “hard-working”, “team player” and “results-driven” are difficult to assess without examples. Show what you did, how you did it and, when appropriate, what changed as a result.

Instead of “strong communicator”, you might write: “Led weekly client updates and presented quarterly performance results.” Instead of “team player”, you could write: “Worked with operations, sales and customer service teams to deliver a product launch two weeks ahead of schedule.”

Use numbers only when they are accurate and useful. A clear example without a number is better than an exaggerated or invented result.

5. Leaving errors or inconsistencies in the final version

Spelling, grammar and formatting errors can distract from your experience. Proofread the resume after every major edit, especially when you have tailored it for a new role.

Check names, job titles, employment dates, qualifications, phone numbers and email addresses. Read the document aloud, review it on another screen and, if possible, ask someone you trust to check it with fresh eyes.

For more help with the next stage of your application, read Creating personalised cover letters with ChatGPT: tips and tricks.

6. Using AI without checking the result

AI tools can help you analyse a job description, identify relevant wording, improve structure, check grammar and turn rough notes into clearer bullet points. They should support your judgement, not replace it.

Give the tool accurate context and ask for suggestions rather than allowing it to invent content. Review every output for accuracy, New Zealand spelling, relevance and tone. Remove confidential or sensitive personal and company information before using an open AI tool, then add necessary details back into the final document yourself.

Example prompt: “Compare the job description below with my anonymised resume. Identify the five most important requirements and suggest truthful ways to make my relevant experience easier to find. Use New Zealand English. Do not invent achievements, qualifications or numbers.”

Your final resume should still sound like you. Correct exaggerations, generic wording and anything you could not confidently explain in an interview.

For a deeper guide to this topic, see Resume writing reinvented: harnessing the power of AI for job search success.

7. Exaggerating your experience or qualifications

Confidence matters, but every claim should be grounded in fact. Be accurate about job titles, responsibilities, dates, qualifications, software knowledge and results. If you are still developing a skill, describe your current level honestly rather than presenting yourself as an expert.

An accurate application protects your credibility and gives you a stronger foundation for interviews, reference checks and conversations with recruiters.

Resume checklist before you apply

• The contact details are current and professional.
• The resume is tailored to the role and uses relevant keywords naturally.
• The most important matching experience is easy to find.
• The layout uses clear headings, readable text and consistent formatting.
• Important information is not trapped in graphics, text boxes or complex tables.
• Achievements are supported by truthful examples.
• Spelling, grammar, names and dates have been checked.
• AI-assisted wording has been verified, personalised and edited.
• Sensitive or confidential information has not been shared unnecessarily.
• The file name is clear, for example Firstname-Lastname-CV.docx.
• The document uses the file format requested by the employer or application portal.

How Adecco can support your job search

You do not have to manage your job search alone. Adecco recruiters can help you understand current opportunities, discuss the experience employers are looking for and identify roles that may suit your skills and goals.

Explore current jobs with Adecco New Zealand or connect with a local team for practical support.

You can also contact Adecco New Zealand or find your nearest branch.

If you are preparing for interviews, continue with How to ace your interview and showcase your skills.

Frequently asked questions

What makes a resume ATS friendly?

An ATS-friendly resume uses a simple, logical structure, standard headings, readable text and relevant job keywords used in context. It avoids placing essential information in graphics, text boxes or complex layouts that may be difficult for some systems to interpret.

How long should a resume be?

There is no single length that suits every candidate. One page may be enough early in your career, while two pages can help experienced candidates show relevant achievements. Include enough detail to demonstrate fit without making the reader search through unrelated information.

Can I use AI to write my resume?

Yes, AI can help with structure, grammar, tailoring and clearer wording. You remain responsible for checking accuracy, protecting sensitive information and making sure the final resume truthfully reflects your own experience and voice.

Should I include a photo on my resume?

Usually, a photo is not needed unless the employer specifically requests one or it is genuinely relevant to the type of work. Use the space to show skills, experience and achievements instead.

Should I send a Word document or PDF?

Follow the instructions in the advertisement or application portal. If no format is stated, use a straightforward file that the system accepts, and check that the text and layout remain readable before submitting.