Let's face it, it takes a certain finesse to write the perfect resume. You have to make sure that your writing is grammatically correct, your work history should be listed in an organized way, and you should be tweaking your resume for each different position that you apply to.
If you don't take the time to edit or proofread your resume, it's highly likely that you won't be getting a callback to come in for an interview. Any mistakes found in your job application, whether minor or major, will send your resume to the no pile.
At Liberty Staffing , we want to see you gain that dream job that you've always wanted. Here are some common resume mistakes that people make, and how you can avoid them.
1. Spelling Errors
As soon as a hiring manager sees one single mistake in your resume, they will immediately think twice about reading the rest of your resume. Some may put your resume straight in the trash.
In order to avoid typos and spelling errors in your resume, look at your resume with fresh eyes another day. You will probably not pick up on any errors the same day that you've been updating your resume. Sleep on it for at least one night and come back to edit it later.
If you're in a bind and need to submit your resume in as soon as you can because it's the last day, ask a friend or family member to look over your resume for any grammatical errors.
2. Incorrect Contact Information
Probably the worst mistake that you could make on your resume is writing your contact information wrong. It's imperative that you note down the correct phone number, address, email address, everything.
Your resume might be top of the line, but if your contact information is incorrect, how can an employer get in touch with you to come in for an interview? If the hiring manager can't contact you, then they'll move on to the next qualified candidate.
3. Sending the Same Resume for Different Positions
Need to gain a job fast? Job seekers often make the mistake of sending the same resume for all the positions that they apply to. They don't take the time to update or tailor their resume for the specific position that they are applying to.
It's not in your best to read over the job advertisement, then reread it. Once you've got a grasp of what the employer is looking for, start to tweak your resume, making sure to highlight any transferable experience, and using strong keywords to describe your skills and work ethic.
4. Format Inconsistency
If you're creating your resume for the first time, make sure that your format is consistent throughout your document. That means that you should select the same font, font sizing, and font colour. Keep your resume simple and clean. The employer should be able to read your resume clearly.
It's important to list your work history and education in chronological order, with your most recent experience at the top of your resume.
Also put the page number and your full name in the header or footer on the second page of your resume.. That way if the second page of your resume gets misplaced for whatever reason, a hiring manager can easily find and piece the two pages together. There's nothing worse than an employer having only half of your job application information.
5. Too Long or Too Short
Typically, all resumes should be one to two pages. If one page of your resume only covers half of the page, fix it. It looks bad if you only have information that fills up half the page. Recent grads, or those entering to the workforce for the first time may not have enough experience to fill one or two full pages. Make sure to include any volunteering experience that you have, as well as your education, and large school projects.
Resumes that are longer than two pages will be tossed in the trash immediately. Hiring managers do not have the time to sit and read through all of the information you've provided. If you have trouble keeping down the word count on your resume, make sure that you only have pertinent information listed on your resume. If you think that one or two things are not transferable to the job that you are applying to, it's best if you leave off this information as well.
Need more resume tips? Contact Liberty Staffing today! We connect great people with great jobs.
