ShareThisYour resume and cover letter don't need to be bland and boring; it's perfectly acceptable to inject a little personality. For example, we enjoyed this job seeker's professional overview, which demonstrated his range and wit: "I am a writer who focuses on food, technology and the daily grind. I have covered everything from the Dilbertization of the workplace to innovative takes on cole slaw." Just don't go overboard by filling your application materials with gimmicks or cutesy quips. Prospective employers might not understand your unique brand of humor or appreciate your attempts to be clever. Here are some candidates who should have toned down their creativity and been more straightforward:"EDUCATION: Graduated in May 2007 with a master's degree, thicker skin and an overly caffeinated bloodstream."Tough curriculum."JOB HISTORY: As a consultant, I was responsible for public service announcements, identity packages, brochures, client meetings and approximately 73 chewed-up pen caps."We'll be sure to lock the supply closet.In addition, not all of your professional development endeavors deserve a mention in your resume."EDUCATION: Took a specialty course titled How to Be Patient With an Impatient Boss."We'd like to hear the boss' side of the story."EDUCATION: Trained in CPR and harassment."About that second course ...And, as always, carefully proofread your documents to make sure they are free of mistakes and are easily understood. This professional left us completely puzzled:"SKILLS: Fruit Loops."Keep the Resumania coming. Examples can be sent to Resumania, c/o Robert Half International Inc., 2884 Sand Hill Road, Suite 200, Menlo Park, Calif., or faxed to 650-234-6998.(Max Messmer is chairman and CEO of Robert Half International Inc., a specialized staffing firm, and author of 'Managing Your Career For Dummies' and 'Job Hunting For Dummies.' For more Resumania, please visit www.resumania.com.)????????1
Liven up your resume with some personality
Submitted by administrator on Mon, 12/17/2007 - 18:16
Paying taxes unites us. It also divides us. People can pay five and even six times more in state and local taxes than other folks in similar circumstances making similar incomes.
Who's got your number?
In one of the fastest-growing forms of identity theft, crooks are stealing tax refunds by swiping personal information and using it to trick the Internal Revenue Service.
