Resume Writing - avoiding some common mistakes
A question that almost all job seekers ask revolves around what recruiters are looking for in a resume. This answer will differ according to the position and the industry, but there are a few rules that apply to all. Read the following guiding points as to how to write a resume - included are some examples of what NOT to do.
Don't sell yourself short
Imagine a recruiter receiving a resume including this statement: "I have no writing experience at all, but I was born in Scotland." What does this tell them? That the person has no qualifications for the job apart from speaking English. Whilst it is unwise to stretch the truth about your qualifications, it is also not a good idea, for obvious reasons, to point out you can't do the job.
Use your resume to showcase your strengths and abilities
A (hopeful!) writer made the following statement: "I am current responsible for standardizing." This person was attempting to tell the prospective employer that they were skilled in standardizing the work of others: a good point. However, this good point was negated by the fact that incorrect grammar was used ("current" should have in fact been "currently")
Clearly indicate that you are capable of good work
In the majority of documents you write, the occasional typo is acceptable. Not so in a resume: you are attempting to prove your worth as an employer. It will work against you if you present a resume that is less than perfect. Consider the following example: "Able to set and meet goals in a fast past environment." Instead of "past", the writer should have written "paced". This was something that the spell checker on the word processing program did not pick up and in turn would indicate to the employer that this candidate does not check their work. Not a good way to gain a job interview.
Apply logic when you are "selling" your abilities
It is possible for even the best of us to include silly things in our resumes that, whilst not necessarily untrue, are mistakes nonetheless. Remember, the statement "98% fat free milk" is another way to say that milk has 2% fat. If you are intent on emphasizing your accuracy, do so using logic.
Tell the employer what you can offer
Most people think that a resume is meant to indicate what you have done, when in reality it is a chance to convince a prospective employer that you are able to do whatever they require of you. Under no circumstances should you stretch the truth or make negative comments about past or current employers: you certainly don't want to be seen as a liar or a backstabber. What you need to do is create an interesting summary of the key elements of your previous employment that shows how well you complete assignments. It is not necessary to include irrelevant details - just the necessary facts.
Don't go over the top
You should keep to the facts in the resume and present it so that the employer understands that you are capable of the job. Cite examples, using numbers when it is relevant. Allow the reader to work out your suitability for themselves: don't tell them how wonderful you are.
Ensure that the resume is clear and easily read
It doesn't really matter whether you are applying for a job as a truck driver or as a doctor: your resume must be clearly understood. There are a number of different types of people who will read the resume and some of these may not necessarily understand job specific jargon. Avoid "buzzwords" that just don't indicate your suitability for the job.
Ensure that your resume does its job
The main reason for a resume is to get you a job interview. Make sure that the resume is packed with all the necessary facts, clearly presented using persuasive language. Use examples of your accomplishments to reinforce your suitability. Check and recheck to weed out any and all unwanted typos. This is how you will be able to make the resume work for you.
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