Uncategorized academyrecruiting on 20 Jul 2009 01:00 pm
Resume Blunders - Avoid these mistakes!
Basic economis teaches us the laws of Supply and Demand. In today’s job market, the supply of resumes (and candidates) is up, and the demand for jobs is down. As a recruiter, I have little time (and patience) to deal with resume blunders. I simply have too many others to look at who aren’t making mistakes. It’s tough enough to get an interview these days… By all means, STOP shooting yourselves in the foot! Here is a basic list of things to avoid:
(from Breitbart.com on 6/15)
Inappropriate e-mail addresses:
A candidate who applied for a law enforcement position used this e-mail address in his resume — badtothebone@net.com.
A banking candidate used this one in his cover letter — greedisgood@mail.com.
And unless sexykitten@net.com is looking for a job in adult films, this person should choose another address.
Typos that will make you squirm:
Spell check doesn’t catch everything in resumes or cover letters, especially typos like these:
“I was hired to review the company asses in 2007.”
The candidate meant to write assets, not asses.
“Delivered daily massages to appropriate personnel.”
This administrative assistant meant to write that she delivered messages, not massages, to the appropriate personnel.
“As indicted, I have over 5 years of analyzing investments.” Perhaps this person meant to “indicate” something else.
Far too much information:
Like the candidate who wrote in her resume under hobbies: Gambling in Vegas.
Or the one who included this under admissions in his resume: “Failed the bar exam 3 times, passed on the fourth go-around, proving my dedication.”
And the candidate who began her cover letter with this: “I am going through a very nasty divorce and am currently unemployed. I need money fast and would really like this job.”
Eye-rolling objectives:
Hiring managers are used to self-serving statements such as: “I am looking for an opportunity where I can use my education to further my professional goals.” However, even jaded managers raised eyebrows at these:
“Looking for a full-time position with minimal time commitment.”
“To get a job and pay my bills.”
“I have no experience or skills, so I am willing to begin anywhere and learn.”
It’s unlikely that any of these candidates were considered for an interview. Remember, put the time and effort in now to edit and perfect your resume. Otherwise, don’t expect to receive very many responses - especially not from reputable firms.
