As I write, I know it’s a no brainer, but I got to thinking and was very concerned as I reviewed the fourth résumé. “What if this information isn’t as common as I thought”?
I’ve been privileged over the years to critique résumés and I must say, I’ve seen good and bad ones.
This week in particular got me concerned as I observed things that shouldn’t be in this present day.
I list below in no particular order things that should most definitely be avoided when writing a résumé.
- Inconsistent Font and Font size
Having varying fonts and font size within the same document makes it difficult to read and provides a very unprofessional look and feel. It’s key to be consistent for the benefit of your reader. Font style and color also matters. Preferred font color is black avoid Red at all cost. Stick to font styles like: Arial; Calibri; Times New Roman, Century Gothic etc., avoid font styles like: Curlz MT; Forte; Vivaldi etc., as these fonts on résumés are hard to read.
- Outdated LinkedIn Profile
I was appalled when I clicked on one of the résumés with a link to their LinkedIn profiles and it was really outdated. In my opinion, it is better to have no linked in profile than have an outdated one that you’re advertising so to speak. If you have social media accounts that you’re including on your résumés, then it is a must to keep it current and updated. Incorporate into your routine choose a date for example the 15th of every month; weekly or bi-weekly to review and update your social media account(s).
- Spelling Mistakes
This was a common thread with all four résumés and again I was disappointed. Turn spellchecker on it doesn’t hurt. I wasn’t sure if these misspelled words were left on deliberately because they knew I’d be reviewing or just a miss on their part, so I include this on the list. Proof read your résumé for spelling and grammatical errors. This is not an option.
- Unprofessional Email Address
The email addresses you created in your tween/teenage years cannot, I repeat cannot follow you to your twenties. A recruiter or hiring manager expects maturity and it is unsuitable to use juvenile email addresses for this new chapter in your professional pursuit.
- Irrelevant Information
Simply, avoid details that have no bearing on the current position you’re applying too.
- Not tailoring the Résumé to the opportunity
Writing a résumé is a job in its self and understandably a lot of hard work but in order to get that coveted job, you have a role to play as it comes with huge responsibilities. That being said, you need to tailor your résumé for every job you apply for. Ensure keywords from the job description appear on your resume; however, don’t use industry jargon to impress; use relevant words that clearly details how your experience provides the solution to their current human resource need.
- Voicemail Message/Phone Numbers
This was not an issue, but I thought I’d throw it in as you can be judged based on your voice mail. Some recordings are just plain inappropriate; therefore, take time to either record a professional voice message or use the automated service that comes with your phone plan. Proofread your document that your phone number is correct anywhere it appears on your résumé. You may be missing out on that job interview simply because of transposed phone numbers.
p.s.
Get your Résumé resource here.
Till next time,
