Proofread resumes and letters carefully for misused words

Your computer's spell-check function can be "grate." But as you can see from this example, it doesn't always catch words that are spelled correctly but used incorrectly. Therefore, it's critical that, after running spell check, you closely proofread your job-application materials for easy-to-overlook -- but potentially troublesome -- errors. Trust me, it's "vary" important and will "bee" well worth your "thyme."

"CURRENT JOB: Paralegal at a personnel injury firm."

We hope that they offer good health insurance.

I assume this next candidate meant to use the word "references":

COVER LETTER: "I have several professional and personal referees."

Do you carry a camera for slow-motion replay?

The following three applicants took it upon themselves to simply make up their own words:

COVER LETTER: "I was implemental in expanding the business."

Were you also instrumental in expanding the business?

COVER LETTER: "I'm currently gamefully employed."

Maybe he's a professional athlete -- or a gambler.

"JOB DUTIES: I cook breakfast, lunch and dinner and make expressos."

Is that coffee served "extra" fast?

Speaking of inventing words, I'm finding that more and more applicants have gotten into the bad habit of "verbing": the art of adding "ing" to the end of a noun or adjective. The trend is also known as "verbification," and some examples I've seen recently include "experting" and "computering." While powerful action verbs can add flavor to your resume, stick with the ones you can find in a dictionary.

"SKILLS: Keyboarding."

Sounds like a winter sport.

Here are some more "interesting" errors:

COVER LETTER: "My written communications are always concise and clearing."

Yes, but you could have been even more clear.

"EDUCATION: I'm pursing a bachelor's degree in business administration."

What a difference a "u" would have made.

For more Resumania, and to submit samples you've come across, visit www.resumania.com. 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, a specialized staffing firm, and author of "Managing Your Career For Dummies" and "Job Hunting For Dummies," 2nd Edition. His most recent book is "Human Resources Kit For Dummies," 2nd Edition.)

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