Applying for Jobs: Common Mistakes

Cover Letter Specific Mistakes

• Do not write more than one page and be concise and to the point.
• Do not repeat anything written in your resume.
• Do not send a letter without proofreading it carefully.

Resume Specific Mistakes

• Do not include a personal information, such as your birth date, religion, martial status, hobbies, etc., that have nothing to do with the job.
• Do not include a picture unless it is required for the position.
• Do not include false, inaccurate or misleading information about yourself.
• Do not include the line, "References Available Upon Request."  However, you should have your references listed on a separate document that can be easily supplied if requested.
• Do not include salary information unless you are specifically asked to include it.
• Do not use "I" statements when writing phrases.
• Do not skip over spell checking your resume.  Misspelled words, typos and errors make you appear careless and show that you are not detail oriented.