What is the MOST common reason for a job application to be eliminated from consideration?

A messy application is the most common reason for a job application to be eliminated from consideration because it reflects a candidate's attention to detail and professionalism. Employers often view the application as a representation of the applicant's work ethic and ability to communicate clearly. If an application contains typos, formatting issues, or is poorly organized, it can create a negative first impression and lead hiring managers to conclude that the applicant may not put in the necessary effort or care in their work.

While other factors like unrelated experience, high salary expectations, or lack of references can also affect an application's success, they can sometimes be overlooked if the overall presentation of the application is strong. A clean and well-organized application can help candidates stand out, even if some experience might not align perfectly or salary expectations are slightly higher. Ultimately, a messy application compromises the candidate's chances significantly, as hiring managers are looking for clear evidence of professionalism and competence right from the start.