Resume Pitfalls to Avoid
It's no secret that as the world of work evolves, so do the skills that employers are looking for in candidates. That means you will need to take care when crafting your resume and cover letter, as without it you'll stand little chance of being seen. If your resume is full of errors, which might include typos or a poorly written summary section, it will be rejected out of hand.
Writing a great resume isn't difficult if you know what to do and follow these simple rules:
1) Specify exactly what you want—you should always tailor your resume to the specific position's requirements.
2) Keep it short—it should be easy to scan and only include the most relevant information. Bullet points in a table format work best, keeping you on point and focused.
3) Include a cover letter—never send in your resume without a cover letter. Your letter should be concise, no longer than two paragraphs. It should state who you are and why you are the best candidate for the position, followed by a closing paragraph thanking them for their time. Keep it professional and refrain from shouting from the rooftops about how excellent you are; this is unprofessional and will make you appear arrogant. Instead focus on what skills or attributes you have that would be useful to them.
4) Include a photo—many employers want to see a photo of you on your resume, but be sure it's not stock or your personal Facebook profile picture. Make sure it is of you at a professional event, for example, in uniform or with your family and friends. To avoid looking like an amateur and making them think you're more worried about getting the job than being successful at it, show genuine enthusiasm.
5) Proofread—after all the hard work you have put into writing your resume there is no excuse for typos or spelling mistakes that could be easily avoided. Double check everything before sending to avoid miscommunications and embarrassing moments when you have to resend it.
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Resume Pitfalls to Avoid