Resume Help: How to End Your Candidacy in 5 Seconds or Less!

I hear frequently from job searchers who do not know why they are not receiving calls for interviews.  They will send dozens of resumes each month and do not receive a single call.  Today’s candidate sent her resume for a Resume Help review.   Within five seconds, I knew the problem.   That is a shame because we have a candidate who is experienced, qualified, and amiable.  However, employers won’t get a chance to meet her because her resume is halting the process.  Let’s take a look at the top three problems.

1.) Grammatical and Spelling Errors

There is no excuse for errors.  In this case, there are numerous words capitalized incorrectly.  She uses the word, “Roll” instead of “Role.”  Also, there are issues with how the language flows in the profile statement. These issues alone would be a deal-breaker for most readers.

2.) Boasting Expected Work Characteristics

An employer has certain baseline expectations.  For example, they expect you to be competent, willing to receive training, and demonstrate the ability to get along with others.  There is no need to state this.  If these are the items that you boast, it brands you as a mediocre candidate at best. 

3.) Neglecting to Show Your Top Values

The profile strategy is to show how you are a match for the target job and how you offer more than the other candidates competing for the same job.  This candidate does not sell the many skills that prove she is a worthy candidate.

If you are struggling with your resume, contact me.  I would be happy to help you showcase your accomplishments. If you would like to read more about resume accomplishments, check out these articles:

Resume Help: Asking Questions to Uncover Accomplishments

Resume Help:  Responsible for a Bad Resume

Writing Results-oriented Resumes