ShareThisCrafting an effective resume is as much about what you put in as what you leave out. As you review your document, ask yourself a question: Will including this piece of information motivate a hiring manager to call me for an interview? If a biographical point doesn't relate to the skills and qualifications a prospective employer seeks, leave it out. These applicants wasted valuable space with off-topic tidbits:
"HOBBIES: I'm a gadget freak, and I own a host of bells and whistles."
He's a one-man band.
"OTHER: I've been a style junkie since I was a tot."
The fashion plate of the playground.
"HOBBIES: Golf is my addiction."
We'll try to work around tee time.
"OTHER: My dad is a professer, and he tought me how to work on computers."
Proper use of spell-check apparently wasn't part of the lesson plan.
This next job seeker should have cut to the chase and simply said that he is a team player:
"SKILLS: The importance of real-world teamwork has become an integral part of my demeanor. The inner communications within the group setting is often the most important aspect, as the group's linear progression is contingent on these communications."
We'll keep that in mind during our next staff meeting.
Moreover, never issue demands in a resume or cover letter. Displaying an attitude of entitlement will get you nowhere.
COVER LETTER: "I have now graduated. Give me a job to establish a career I will like."
Can you at least say please?
Finally, this candidate is either extremely confident or a time traveler:
"ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Top sales agent in 2008 and 2009."
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.
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RESUMANIA
