1. Cramming too much information onto a single page
“Many people believe the old theory that a resume has to be only one
page in length,” said HR Manager, “so they try to squeeze in as much
information as possible, using a font that is too small and arranging
information into lengthy paragraphs that are onerous to read.” Instead, HR Manager recommends formatting text into bullet points and using an 11- or
12-point font. This will greatly improve the document’s readability and
make it easier to scan. Also, boldface type should be used judiciously,
such as to highlight job titles.
2. Failing to use key words that match the job description
Organizations today are increasingly using automated applicant
tracking systems to filter resumes for words or phrases that match the
job’s requirements. Therefore, it is critical to match your most
relevant experience to the job description. For example, if a job
advertisement states that full-charge book-keeping experience is
required, your resume should include the words “full-charge
book-keeping” as well as terms pertinent to that function, such as
“invoicing,” “accounts payable,” and “month end statements.” Otherwise,
the tracking system may simply skip past your resume.
3. Failing to show results
Another common mistake that job seekers make is listing duties
performed in prior positions as if they were making out a shopping list.
Employers are not only interested in what you did in previous jobs, they also want to know how
you did it. To be more relevant to a hiring manager, put your past
experience into context by demonstrating how previous employers
benefited by having you on board. For example, instead of saying,
“responsible for accounts receivable and collections,” show how you
added value by describing tangible results: “successfully reduced
accounts receivable by 75% in the first year from $150,000 to $37,500 by
creating a detailed system for 30-60-90-120 day aging reports.”
4. Absence of key strengths and expertise section
When looking at a resume, the eye naturally gravitates to the top of
the page. Use that to your advantage. HR Manager recommends inserting at the
top of the resume a “Key Strengths and Expertise” section formatted as
two columns of four bullet points each. This will enable employers to
see at a glance what skill sets they will gain by hiring you. Again,
make sure the key words in this section match the position’s
requirements. Examples of the types of information to include in this
section are listed below:
Sales growth & relationship building
Training & team building to bring positive change
Communications & high impact presentations
Sales negotiation & generating revenue
Staff scheduling, P&L statements & payroll
5. Too much clutter
When creating a resume, make white space your friend. Simpler resumes
are more inviting to read. According to HR Manager: “The average amount of
time a hiring manager spends scanning a resume is five to ten seconds;
therefore, it must be easy to read.” Manager noted that because resumes must
convey information using a limited amount of words and space,
applicants must carefully choose what to put on this document. There
should be nothing extraneous; everything on the resume must be concise
and serve a purpose.
She further indicated it is unnecessary and usually not worth the
effort to include graphics or photographs on a resume. Most automated
tracking systems cannot “read” graphics or images, resulting in resumes
getting lost in the database. For best results, stick to easy-to-read
file types like Microsoft Word or PDF. An exception to this rule would
be if you are applying for a job in a specialized field, such as graphic
design, where it is important to show your skills in this area.
Oftentimes, these types of jobs will require you to submit a portfolio
of work separate from your resume.
