If you're looking for a job these days, you don't need to hear that things are cutthroat.
But have you heard that your application might be tossed aside with only a 10-second glance, due to the overwhelming crush of applicants?
That's right... employers are giving resumes a quick glance, if anything. This means that standing out with a clear, professional presentation is more crucial than ever.
Some resume flaws are even SO fatal that committing one of these nearly GUARANTEES you'll miss out on interviews.
I recommend taking an analytical view of how your resume shapes up (assuming, of course, that you're determine to get past that first scan) to see if any of these 5 common scenarios apply to you--then apply the fix:
1 - You've used a canned template.
At least one third of all the millions of Microsoft Word users probably had the same idea--and therefore the same resume style.
Standing out isn't just a matter of words--it's also in the presentation. Bottom-line: use an attractive style that reflects your UNIQUE qualifications.
2 - You are facing challenges in your job search (such as a job that ended last year, lack of a degree, etc.), yet your resume skips RIGHT to your job history.
This one is a career killer--since it quickly gives the reader LESS reasons to call you for an interview.
This is where resume strategy comes in. Reweight and focus on the optimum parts of your career, developing a plan for your presentation BEFORE writing the resume.
Address gaps, and focus on the positive qualities and skills that you bring to the table, rather than the challenges you face in your search.
3 - Your wording is weak.
Did you write "responsible for" on your resume? If so, you are missing some fantastic ways to sell your skills. Try "power verbs" (achieved, revitalized, captured, etc.) instead.
Ratcheting up the volume in your verbiage is a hidden skill of professional resume writers. In fact, I've devoted an entire appendix in my resume writing books to precisely this technique.
4 - You've used an objective statement to top it off.
Funny thing about that objective - it really ISN'T objective! While this was a standard for the resume of yesteryear, using this will nearly ENSURE you get passed over today.
A better idea: summarize your unique credentials in a profile or summary.
5 - You've borrowed phrases.
There must be thousands of "self-motivated team players" out there. If you're guilty of copying some great-sounding phrases, give some clear thought to this one.
Your resume should present your personal brand--meaning qualities that describe your capabilities PRECISELY. To get started, ask colleagues or friends how they would describe you or your work.
To sum up, refreshing your resume can make THE difference between having your phone ring for interviews, or being passed over in favor of someone less qualified.
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