ShareThisSummer is in full swing, and many people are planning their yearly vacations. Although everyone needs to recharge on occasion, now is not the time to take a break from the job search. Companies still hire during the lazy, hazy days of summer, and you can bet your competitors in the job market aren't resting. Remain diligent in hunting for opportunities and sending flawless application materials. This error comes from a candidate who was too laid-back about proofreading:
"QUALIFICATIONS: I'm a painstaking prefectionist."
Some might argue otherwise.
Your editing process should entail more than running spell-check. Review your documents on screen and on paper, slowly read the document aloud to focus on individual words, and ask a detail-oriented friend to check your work. You can't rely on your computer to flag every error. The following examples contain words that are spelled accurately but used incorrectly.
RESUME: "Following is a grief overview of my skills."
A sad summary.
"HOBBIES: I've traveled and studied in different countries such as Holland, England, Bolivia and Chili."
That last trip sounds messy.
"EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS: Vocational services: Assist clients with work; help clients improve reign of motion."
COVER LETTER: "I'm a recent graduate with a master's degree. I've found it difficult to find a job. I'll do anything. I'll even bust tables."
We understand your frustration, but there's no need to take it out on the furniture.
"SKILLS: Excellent people skills, good presents."
You'll be popular at our holiday gift exchange!
This applicant intended to highlight his ability to handle high-pressure situations. Unfortunately, he sent a different message.
"SKILLS: Nervous of steel."
Are you more comfortable around copper?
Finally, missing words can be as problematic as misspellings.
"SKILLS: Sense humor."
Hopefully, we give off a fun-loving vibe.
(Max Messmer is chairman and CEO of Robert Half International, a specialized staffing firm. His most recent book is "Human Resources Kit For Dummies," 2nd Edition. For more Resumania, visit www.resumania.com. Send Resumania examples to Resumania, c/o Robert Half International, 2884 Sand Hill Road, Suite 200, Menlo Park, Calif. 94025. Or, fax to 650-234-6998.)
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RESUMANIA
