If you have been submitting your resume to multiple positions with little response, it may not just be the competitive nature of the job market. It could be that your resume isn’t as polished as you think and contains some nuances that are turning off hiring managers. There is certain information that employers simply don’t want – or need – to see, and other essentials that you may be overlooking. Before you apply for that next job, take a minute to see how your resume measures up.
1. It has an objective statement. Ditch the objective because it states the obvious – you want the job. Use a summary of qualifications and core competencies section to show hiring managers why you are a good fit. What do you bring to the table and how can you enhance their business?
2. You have included too much personal information. Limit personal information to a basic contact section with your name, address, phone number, email, and LinkedIn link. Other details such as relationships status, birthday, social security number, photograph, or hobbies are unnecessary and serve to no purpose as they do not relate to your job qualifications. Another major reason this can be a turnoff is that it could lead to unintentional discrimination. It is better to leave it off all together and not take any chances.
3. You lack an online presence. In this day and age, it is not unusual for employers to Google you and see what turns up. While you don’t want anything embarrassing to pop up, you do want to show that you are active and technology savvy. You can adjust your privacy settings but make sure that anything an employer may see is professional sounding. Lack of a LinkedIn profile can also hurt your chances as this has become a major go-to resource for hiring managers to scout talent and find out more about applicants.
4. Your resume is littered with poor grammar or typos. Being able to communicate effectively is essential. This includes both in writing and in person. Poor grammar not only looks unprofessional, but shows a lack of attention to detail. The same goes for typos. Your resume is your first shot at making a strong impression. If you know that grammar and spelling are not your strong suit, this is even more reason to have someone else edit and proofread for you. Spell check is not enough and does not catch every mistake.
5. You’re trying too hard. If you are using fancy language and descriptions that seem too good to be true, a hiring manager will probably assume they are. Avoid overinflating your job descriptions and trying to make yourself sound more important or skilled than you are. While you want to showcase your greatest strengths and accomplishments, ensure that they sound logical and reasonable. The truth will come out during an interview, reference checks, or on the job, so make sure you are being honest.
If you are guilty of some of these errors or your resume simply isn’t getting the results you were hoping for, contact Chic Resumes today to help you get back on track. We will work with you to refresh your resume so that it presents you in a positive (and honest) light, highlighting your strongest qualifications and appealing to what hiring managers are looking for in today’s job market. To schedule a consultation or for more information, call (803) 831-7444 or email resumewriting@grammarchic.net.
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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.
