When it comes to your resume, using a tried-and-true approach to attracting a hiring manager's attention is often the best strategy. Seventy-five percent of executives polled by Robert Half International said they prefer a chronological resume that's organized by dates of employment rather than a functional resume, which emphasizes skills over previously held positions.
The traditional chronological format - in which your employment history is presented in reverse order - shows where you've worked during the course of your career but gives prominence to your most recent professional experience. This allows hiring managers, who are often stretched for time, to quickly assess your qualifications.
Regardless of the format you use, make the prospective employer's task easy by submitting a well-organized, concise and straightforward resume. These candidates confused us:
"PERSONAL: You'll never see me not smiling, except sometimes."
Thanks for clearing that up.
"EDUCATION: Graduate degree of still continuing my education."
A lifelong learner.
"OBJECTIVE: I'm pretty sure the bulk of my professional career will be spent in the work sector."
We couldn't agree more.
In today's competitive job market, it's more important than ever to express your confidence and enthusiasm for the position in your resume and cover letter. Never take yourself out of the running by highlighting areas of weakness; let the employer decide if you'd be a good fit.
COVER LETTER: "I am not the 'ideal' candidate."
Do you know someone who might be?
"QUALIFICATIONS: I'm average."
And honest to a fault.
COVER LETTER: "It's late, and I'm tired. And as I'm re-reading this, I realize that my chances are nothing to zero."
Some statements are self-fulfilling.
For more Resumania, and to submit samples you've come across, visit www.resumania.com. Keep the Resumania coming. Examples can be sent to Resumania, c/o Robert Half International, 2884 Sand Hill Road, Suite 200, Menlo Park, Calif., 94025, or faxed to 650-234-6998.
Max Messmer is chairman and CEO of Robert Half International, a specialized staffing firm, and author of Managing Your Career For Dummies(r) and Job Hunting For Dummies(r), 2nd Edition. His most recent book is Human Resources Kit For Dummies(r), 2nd Edition.
??
??
??
??
RESUMANIA
Post new comment