From my experience working with job seekers there are many misconceptions about resume writing and the job search in general. As much as we hope that every hiring manger sits and studies our resumes every time we submit for a job, this unfortunately just does not happen. When a company posts a job on a major job board, that company can receive in excess of 300-500 resumes. I have once received over 1500 resumes for one particular job within 48 hours! As such, when it comes to writing your resume, it’s important to focus on providing value added content that strictly targets the job you are applying for.
Find below my top 4 Resume Writing Misconceptions:
1) Your resume will be read from start to finish:
When your resume is initially opened for the first time it is more than likely going to be viewed for less than 30 seconds. Including a qualifications profile at the beginning of your resume is a fantastic way of grabbing the reader’s attention. Focus your attention on the skills that you can offer the company as opposed to telling the reader what you are looking for in a job.
2) Any resume template will work:
This is completely wrong. Type into Google “Resume Templates” and you will see that there are literally thousands of templates that you can choose from. Be warned, resume templates have been around for many years. Most templates are old fashioned and nearly most of the templates that you can download online will not be read by “Automated Recruiting Software”, especially if they have boxes and tables. An experienced hiring manger can sniff out a resume template from a mile away and can portray an initial first impression of being lazy and lacking initiative and professionalism.
3) One size fits all approach:
If you’ve applied for multiple jobs using the same resume and have not found success at all, it’s probably because your resume is not standing out because it’s too generic. Target your resume toward every job you apply for. Ensure that when a recruiter or employer reads through your resume that it is written specifically for the position you are applying for. I’m not saying that you need to completely re-write your resume every time you apply for a job, however there are things that you can do to tailor your resume to a specific job so that a hiring manager knows you’ve taken the time to match up your qualifications and the job’s requirements.
4) The more creative the resume looks, the more the resume will stand out:
Remember that your resume is not a piece of artwork – it will never be hung up on the wall or put up on the fridge. The resume has one purpose and that is to get you to interview. Highlighting your name in big pink writing may get the attention of the reader, however will most probably not portray the professional image that is required. Ensure your resume stands out by including key achievements and the value added skills and training that you can bring to the job.
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