10 Things to Avoid in a Resume
How many of us would read on matters strange or unfamiliar to us? Imagine the plight of the recruiter who is sifting through hundreds of resume looking for those couple of people who might make an impression and might further go on to get selected. Is it not unfair on our part to send across to him/her a resume with matters that make little/no sense.
- Objective: The objective is obvious — the position at the company you are applying to. Use a precise 2-line self introduction instead.
- Longer Resumes: Recruiters spend less than 10 seconds on your resume in the first glance — make the most of this time by keeping it up to/under 2 pages.
- Paragraphs: Paragraphs could be unappealing and boring to prospective recruiters; use bullet points not exceeding 3 lines.
- Pictures: Don’t include pictures unless asked for (or you are applying to be an actor or a model) — despite being irrelevant, they increase the size of your file.
- References: Provide references only when asked; use the available space judiciously
- Unsubstantiated Claims: Anybody can make statements — only those properly backed last. Support every accomplishment with the purpose, motivation, strategy and result.
- Jargon: Be careful about using technical jargon — avoid using industry specific jargon especially while looking for positions across industries.
- Fancy: Words, design or fonts — keep it simple. Unless you are applying for a creative position, in an attempt to be different, try not to be fancy.
- Gaps: If you were in a sabbatical or taking a world tour or undergoing a training, meaning a break/gap in your career — don’t leave it open. Mentioning what you did (along with the duration) will save time spent on explaining the gap/break.
- Weakness: NO.
More Tips on Resume Writing from Resume LABB…
