This Might Be Sabotaging Your Job Application

Let’s talk about the em dash. That long line (—) often used to add emphasis, replace commas, or break up a sentence for dramatic effect. It’s stylish, versatile, and everywhere right now.

But if you’re using it in your resume, cover letter, or outreach messages, you might want to pause.

The em dash has become a calling card of AI-generated writing. It shows up in polished language that can feel just a little too perfect. And in a job search, where your goal is to sound human and genuine, that can be a problem.

Recruiters are reading hundreds of applications. If your writing sounds overly produced or automated, it can create distance instead of connection.

Try this instead:

• Break long sentences into two

• Use periods or commas instead of dashes

• Read your writing out loud. Does it sound like you?

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Authenticity matters more than punctuation. And a few small changes might make a big difference in how your story lands.

Share this with a fellow Job Seeker - it could help them avoid this unintentional downfall.