ShareThisHaving a good sense of humor can be a boon to your career. In fact, in a survey by Robert Half International, 97 percent of office workers said it is important for managers to have a sense of humor. But there is a time and place for everything. While it's acceptable to inject some personality into your resume and cover letter, don't overload your application materials with jokes, sarcasm or wordplay. What may be funny in person does not always translate on paper. The following candidates should have toned down the playfulness:"TECHNICAL SKILLS: Proficient in turn-it-off-and-on-again-based computer repair." A foolproof technique that always works for us."COMPUTER SKILLS: Qualified printer reset button presser and ink cartridge shaker."You're off to a shaky start.In addition, if you include an objective statement on your resume, do so in a succinct and straightforward manner. For example, here's an objective statement that works well:"OBJECTIVE: To secure a director position with a nonprofit youth-services organization that will benefit from my 15 years of experience developing award-winning social service programs for children."These next objective statements, on the other hand, aren't as clear or compelling: "OBJECTIVE: Reception."Is this an applicant for wide receiver?"OBJECTIVE: To operate the customer."Hopefully, he's pushing the right buttons.And, finally, don't mention money unless a prospective employer requests your salary requirements:"OBJECTIVE: To work for any pay." Negotiation isn't his strong suit.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 Inc., 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 Inc., 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.????????2
Use humor carefully on a resume
Submitted by SHNS on Tue, 02/12/2008 - 12:45
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