Avoid Summary Length Errors That Ruin ATS Parsing

The summary section of your resume is crucial for making a strong first impression. However, summary length errors can lead to significant issues, causing your resume to be overlooked by both ATS and recruiters. These errors often go unnoticed by candidates, making it essential to understand the right length and format.

Issue #1 – Summary Too Short

Why this hurts

A summary that is too short may not provide enough information about your skills and experiences, thus failing to impress recruiters and ATS alike.

Example

• Weak: "Experienced professional."
• Stronger: "Results-driven marketing professional with over 5 years of experience in digital marketing strategies."

How to fix

• Expand your summary to include specific skills and achievements that relate to the job.

Issue #2 – Summary Too Long

Why this hurts

Conversely, a summary that is excessively long can overwhelm recruiters and cause ATS to misinterpret the content. This can lead to important keywords being missed.

Example

• Weak: "With extensive experience in various fields and a strong background in leading teams across multiple sectors, I excel in delivering results."
• Stronger: "Dynamic leader with extensive experience in managing cross-functional teams to drive project success within the tech industry."

How to fix

• Keep your summary concise, ideally between 50 to 100 words, focusing on the most relevant details.

Issue #3 – Lack of Focus

Why this hurts

An unfocused summary can confuse both ATS and recruiters, making it unclear what your key qualifications are.

Example

• Weak: "I am a hard worker who enjoys various tasks and responsibilities."
• Stronger: "Detail-oriented project manager with a track record of successful project delivery in the IT sector."

How to fix

• Target your summary to the specific position you are applying for, highlighting relevant experiences and skills.

Issue #4 – Missing Keywords

Why this hurts

If your summary lacks relevant keywords from the job description, it may not pass ATS filters, leading to rejection.

Example

• Weak: "Skilled in various software applications."
• Stronger: "Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office with excellent data analysis skills."

How to fix

• Incorporate keywords that are highlighted in the job listing to ensure alignment with ATS requirements.

Issue #5 – Unprofessional Language

Why this hurts

Using casual or unprofessional language in your summary can create a negative impression on recruiters and ATS.

Example

• Weak: "I love working with people and getting things done!"
• Stronger: "Experienced team leader with a passion for driving project success and fostering collaborative environments."

How to fix

• Use professional language that conveys confidence and expertise.

Issue #6 – Overuse of Jargon

Why this hurts

Too much industry jargon can alienate recruiters who may not be familiar with specific terms, leading to misinterpretation.

Example

• Weak: "I utilize synergies to leverage core competencies in the vertical market."
• Stronger: "I use my expertise in market analysis to improve business strategies and outcomes."

How to fix

• Keep language simple and clear while still demonstrating your expertise.

Issue #7 – Passive Voice Usage

Why this hurts

Using passive voice can make your summary less impactful and harder to read, making it unattractive to both ATS and recruiters.

Example

• Weak: "Projects were managed by me to completion on time."
• Stronger: "I successfully managed projects to completion within deadlines."

How to fix

• Use active voice to create a more dynamic and engaging summary.

Issue #8 – Lack of Personalization

Why this hurts

Generic summaries fail to connect with the specific job you are targeting, reducing your chances of getting noticed.

Example

• Weak: "I have experience in sales and customer service."
• Stronger: "Sales professional with a proven ability to increase revenue and enhance customer satisfaction for tech startups."

How to fix

• Tailor your summary to reflect the specific qualities and experiences that align with the job description.

Entry

Entry-level applicants often struggle with creating a compelling summary due to limited experience. Focus on relevant coursework or internships to enhance your summary.

Mid

Mid-level professionals should highlight achievements but avoid excessive detail that could dilute the impact of their summary.

Senior

Senior candidates need to balance between showcasing leadership experience and keeping the summary succinct to attract recruiter attention.

• Keep your summary between 50-100 words.
• Include relevant keywords from the job description.
• Avoid jargon and passive voice.
• Make it specific to the job you are applying for.
• Seek a validation step using Mistakes.cv to check for hidden mistakes.

Don’t let summary length errors hold you back from landing interviews. Use the insights provided to refine your resume and ensure it resonates with both ATS and recruiters.

Consider using Mistakes.cv for a thorough review and detection of hidden resume mistakes to enhance your chances of success.