RESUME MISTAKES
Polish Your Copy Editor Resume
Spot the hidden errors that stop hiring managers and ATS from seeing your editorial expertise.
How This Page Helps
Help copy editors identify and correct resume mistakes that hinder job prospects, ensuring a clear, error‑free document that passes ATS and impresses editors.
Identify grammar and style slip‑ups in your own resume
Learn ATS‑friendly formatting for editorial roles
Get actionable before‑and‑after examples
Use Resumly’s automated detection rules
Boost confidence with a ready‑to‑use checklist
Common Mistakes That Kill Your Chances
Each mistake includes why it hurts, how to fix it, and before/after examples
Using passive voice throughout the resumeMEDIUM
Why it hurts
- Reduces impact of achievements
- Makes statements sound vague
- ATS may undervalue action verbs
How to fix
- Replace passive constructions with strong active verbs
- Start bullet points with action words
- Quantify results where possible
❌ Before
The copy was edited by me to improve clarity.
✓ After
Edited copy to improve clarity, increasing readability scores by 15%.
ATS Tip
Lead each bullet with a verb from the job description.
Detection Rules
Contains forms of 'was', 'were', 'been' followed by past participle
Lacks strong action verbs
Resumly Tip
Switch to active voice for a punchier narrative.
Listing generic responsibilities instead of achievementsHIGH
Why it hurts
- Fails to demonstrate impact
- Makes resume blend with others
- ATS keywords may be missing
How to fix
- Focus on measurable results
- Show how your editing improved publications
- Include specific metrics
❌ Before
Responsible for editing articles.
✓ After
Edited 30+ articles per month, reducing errors by 25% and boosting readership by 10%.
ATS Tip
Include keywords like 'proofreading', 'style guide', 'content optimization'.
Detection Rules
Bullet points start with 'Responsible for' or 'Duties include'
Resumly Tip
Turn duties into achievements with numbers.
Incorrect file naming and missing contact infoLOW
Why it hurts
- Hiring managers may discard file
- ATS may not parse contact details
- Professionalism appears low
How to fix
- Name file as FirstLast_CopyEditor.pdf
- Place name, phone, email at top
- Use a professional email address
❌ Before
Resume_1.doc
✓ After
JaneDoe_CopyEditor.pdf
ATS Tip
Use .pdf to preserve formatting.
Detection Rules
File name does not contain candidate name
Resumly Tip
Rename before sending.
Inconsistent date and location formattingMEDIUM
Why it hurts
- Creates visual clutter
- ATS may misread dates
- Hiring managers perceive lack of attention to detail
How to fix
- Use MM/YYYY for all dates
- List city, state consistently
- Align dates to right margin
❌ Before
June 2019 – Present
✓ After
06/2019 – Present
ATS Tip
Standard date format improves parsing.
Detection Rules
Dates appear in varied textual forms
Resumly Tip
Standardize dates across sections.
Overloading resume with jargon and missing style guide adherenceLOW
Why it hurts
- ATS may not recognize niche terms
- Hiring managers may think you can't simplify text
- Clutters readability
How to fix
- Use plain language, reserve industry terms for context
- Follow AP or Chicago style guidelines
- Proofread for consistency
❌ Before
Utilized CMS to synergize cross‑functional deliverables.
✓ After
Managed content in CMS, coordinating with writers and designers.
ATS Tip
Balance keywords with clear language.
Detection Rules
Contains buzzwords like 'synergize', 'leverage'
Resumly Tip
Simplify language for clarity.
Formatting Guidelines
File Types: PDF, DOCX
Sections: Header, Professional Summary, Core Competencies, Professional Experience, Education, Certifications, Tools & Software
Naming: FirstNameLastName_CopyEditor.pdf
Consistency
Length: One page for early‑career, up to two pages for senior copy editors
Date Format: MM/YYYY
Location Format: City, State (or Country)
Resume Quality Checklist
- Use active voice in every bullet
- Quantify achievements
- Include relevant editorial keywords
- Standardize dates and locations
- Proofread for spelling and grammar
- Save as PDF with proper file name
ATS Alignment Guide
Common ATS Systems: iCIMS, Greenhouse, Workday, Lever
Keyword Strategy: Proofreading, copyediting, style guide, AP style, content strategy, SEO, CMS
Heading Format: Use standard headings like 'Professional Experience' and 'Core Competencies'
Quick Fix Workshop
Paste a bullet point from your current resume
- Convert passive to active voice
- Add a measurable result
- Trim to 2‑3 lines
- Insert a relevant keyword
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