RESUME MYTH BUSTERS

In my 14+ years of resume writing, I have heard it all and as a former recruiter, I have seen it all. Here are some of the top 5 things that I often hear when it comes to content writing and formatting resumes.

“THEY SAY YOUR RESUME SHOULD BE ON ONE PAGE”

I often hear this resume cliché and have even had a few job seekers get upset when I try to reformat their resume because they are adamant about having a one-pager. Everyone’s work history and achievements cannot possibly fit onto one page. One page resumes usually work for most high school/college students, those who have only had one job, or those who have worked in similar roles within the same industry.

A GENERIC OBJECTIVE STATEMENT IS ACCEPTABLE

Absolutely not! Your Professional Profile statement should describe who you are, what you have accomplished and how you can solve the organization’s problem. Using a generic will get your resume tossed!

ALL RESUMES SHOULD BE IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER

Chronological formatted resumes are very common but they do not work for everyone. If you have been out of the workforce for a while and ready to re-enter, submitting a chronological resume for a position will harm rather than help you. How? The gap in employment will be evident and can risk your chances of getting an interview. Functional, Targeted or Combination formatted resumes may best work for your situation.

EVERY ACQUIRED SKILL SHOULD BE LISTED ON YOUR RESUME

As with your Profile Statement, your skills should be tailored to the job description. Listing irrelevant skills will not only annoy the recruiter but also take up unnecessary space on your resume. So if you are applying for a position as a Communications Manager, refrain from listing your dishwashing and bartending skills from your part-time weekend gig.

“REFERENCES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST” SHOULD BE PLACED AT THE BOTTOM OF YOUR RESUME

I encourage you not to put this antiquated statement on your resume. If a recruiter sees you as a viable candidate and ready to move forward with you, then they will reach out to you and ask for your references. There is no need to mention it on your resume.

MAKE YOUR RESUME STAND OUT