Do you - the job-seeker - want the hiring decision-maker to give your resume the attention it deserves? Let's correct some mistakes now so that it does not wind up in "resume black-hole limbo."
Mistake #1: Using a general, one-size-fits-all resume and believing that Human Resources will take the time to evaluate your skills in order to determine the right job for you.
The Reality: Such a resume is guaranteed to line a garbage can in record time. Why? Hiring decision-makers (no longer just those in Human Resources) will devote 10 seconds - maybe! - the first time around. If they can't determine in 10 scant seconds (a) actual job titles you wish to apply for and (b) what sets you apart from other job-seeking hopefuls, you are begging to remain unemployed.
Mistake #2: Paying no attention as to how the resume is formatted.
The Reality: Unattractive resume-template lookalikes and plain-Jane documents, WILL prompt the employer to move on to another resume.
Mistake #3: Submitting a resume devoid of industry-specific keywords and key phrases.
The Reality: For years now, companies have used Applicant Tracking Systems to scan resumes for the right mix of keywords and key phrases. If these vital components are left off, the resume will not advance to the next round.
Mistake #4: Listing irrelevant work experience, unrelated education, hobbies and/or interests.
The Reality: A resume is NOT your biography, where you list everything you've done in detail since the age of 5. Rather, a properly-crafted resume is designed to convince the hiring decision-makers that you are a serious contender to interview.
Mistake #5: Not proofreading your resume (or having someone proof it for you) before you forward it.
The Reality: Hiring decision-makers demand that your formal resume is meticulously accurate. That means no typos, grammatical inconsistencies, or spelling errors. This is one of the best Resume Editing Services, that will ensure YOUR resume impresses your potential employer!
Mistake #6: Devoting space on your resume to such personal information as your height, weight, marital status, religion, ancestry, financial history, yada yada yada.
The Reality: Hiring decision-makers are NOT allowed to ask you about the personal items mentioned above, because it can be perceived as discriminatory.
Mistake #7: Including the "references provided upon request" phraseology.
The Reality: As an expert in this field, I know of only 3 career vocations where it is still acceptable to include these words in an American or Canadian resume. For all other careers, it is now considered outdated and - in resume-writing parlance - "wasted real estate."
Mistake #8: Believing that a "duties-and-responsibilities-only" resume is good enough to submit.
The Reality: Today, hiring decision-makers view duties and responsibilities on a resume as virtually obsolete. By contrast, a 21st Century resume - one that does NOT focus on duties and responsibilities only - clearly articulates WHY you are the ideal job candidate.
