When it comes to crafting a resume, there are many different opinions about what format, style, content, and more. This can make it difficult for job seekers to determine what they do and do not need to include and how their resume should look. Expectations and requirements have changed over the years, shifting the art of resume writing. Here is a look at some common beliefs and why they have not withstood the test of time:
1. No more than one page in length. While it is true that recruiters spend a short time gathering their initial impression of your resume, you want to make sure that you give them enough quality content to base their decision on. For someone coming out of college who does not have much experience yet, a one-page resume may suffice. However, for someone in a c-suite position or with extensive experience, a single page could be doing them a disservice. It does not allow them to adequately demonstrate their qualifications or accomplishments. Two pages are generally acceptable for a mid-level employee, but no more than three pages regardless of experience.
2. Start with an objective. An objective tells the employer your intended purpose or goals. This serves little benefit. Your goal is to get the job for which you are applying, otherwise why would you be submitting your resume? A solid summary of qualifications and core competences provides a much stronger impression and quickly allows employers to evaluate your abilities.
3. List every job you have held since getting your degree. For some people, this may be true, especially if they have been with the same company for several years. For others, it is unnecessary. As long as leaving off a job does not create a significant gap in employment, skipping over those that you only spent a few months at or were not relevant to your career can be okay. If you do list a lengthy history, only elaborate on those positions within the last 10 or 15 years. Condense anything beyond that.
4. Include references or “references available upon request.” Listing references takes up valuable space on your resume. It is generally accepted that if an employer wants references, they will ask for them and you will provide them. There is no need to mention this. It is helpful to keep an updated list ready, however, in case they should ask.
5. Create a separate section for accomplishments. Splitting up your work history and accomplishments can make it more difficult for employers to determine what you did in various positions and how your career has progressed. Include metrics, achievements, and projects with the company and position where they were completed for a clearer, more concise impression.
6. A hard copy of your resume is sufficient. In our technology-centric world, more employers are turning to online resources to find qualified applicants. Having your resume available digitally and uploading it to a social media platform such as LinkedIn can be beneficial in your job search. This allows employers to view your resume 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also add links and upload additional files to further expand your portfolio.
Don’t let these myths and more hold you back. Contact the professionals at Chic Resumes to make sure you have a current, polished resume that fits with today’s standards. Contact us at (803) 831-7444 or email resumewriting@grammarchic.net to set up your consultation and get started today. Make sure your resume works to your benefit and supports your job search.
Learn about Pricingon our professional resume writing service!
Amanda E. Clark founded Grammar Chic in 2008. She is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University and holds degrees in Journalism, Political Science, and English. She launched Grammar Chic after freelancing for several years while simultaneously leading marketing and advertising initiatives for several Fortune 500 companies.
