ShareThisDo you have the write stuff? Do your resume and cover letter sore to knew heights?
Homonyms are words that have the same pronunciation but different meanings or spellings. I've seen job candidates confuse not only affect with effect but also paced with paste and hire with higher. These types of errors highlight why you should diligently proofread your documents and not rely solely on spell-check, which may not flag misused words that are spelled correctly. Minimize typos by reading your application materials several times aloud (not allowed) and asking eagle-eyed friends to double-check your work.
COVER LETTER: "I am a team-oriented individual in sink with coworkers and managers."
How do you all fit?
"STRENGTHS: Integrity is my core principal."
Is probity your provost?
"QUALIFICATIONS: Past the MCP certification exam."
We can tell why hiring managers passed on this resume.
This recent graduate made an egregious mistake and included unnecessary biographical information on his resume:
"PERSONAL: I am a 23-year-old mail."
This applicant doesn't get our stamp of approval.
Poorly placed or overused punctuation can be problematic, too:
COVER LETTER: "I can prove to be an 'asset' to any company. Because of my years of experience, I 'specialize' in handling an 'array' of jobs that will make a difference in your 'daily' business needs."
Can we quote you on that?
COVER LETTER: "Your company will have a blast with me!!!"
He's exploding with enthusiasm.
Finally, stand out from the crowd by being professional, not playful:
RESUME HEADLINE: "L@@KING FOR WORK."
We're @ a loss for words.
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
