Résumé Help: What Not to Do: Part 1 of 2
Many résumés that we receive to critique are “solid B” résumés. As you know, many times a “B” is not good enough to get the interview. So, I point out ways to elevate those résumé up to an “A.” Lately, I have received some résumés in need of a complete overhaul. At first I wondered if our blog readers could relate to résumés that are so bad. On second thought, we need to see the truly disastrous résumés to learn what not to do!
Meet Henry Clark. Let’s take a look at the first half of his résumé and what not to do!
1.) Boring Appearance
Henry avoided any style elements. He chose a very plain font. If he used other style features with this font, it would work. However, other than a few random horizontal lines, there are no style elements employed. Don’t do it Henry’s way. Create a sophisticated document with graphic elements and perhaps a touch of shading or color.
2.) Random Bulleted List
Henry lists a variety of skills, licenses, job titles, and experience notes. The information is not explained well or categorized. It looks like a few half-baked thoughts. One item listed is “CDL holder.” A quick search on acronym finder tells me that one of the popular meanings for this is “Concealed Holder’s License.” I think almost any candidate can understand why this is not something for his résumé. It is not relevant to his career goal.
3.) Improper Punctuation and Capitalization
It goes without saying that the résumé must be perfect when it comes to punctuation, spelling, and grammar. Henry missed the mark quite a few times.
4.) Showcasing the GED
I am glad that Henry earned his GED. A high school education is a baseline requirement. However, it is not advisable to include high school education on a résumé, unless the candidate is an 18-year-old recent high school graduate. A GED is never an item to showcase on a résumé. Yet, Henry has this shown prominently on the top of his résumé.
Next time, we will explore the second half of Henry’s résumé and share more things that you should definitely NOT DO!
For more résumé advice, please follow these links:
Average Résumés Do Not Get Job Offers
The Ridiculous But Never Sublime
Common Résumé Mistakes That You Must Avoid
To see additional résumé suggestions that will help you as you create your own résumé, please click on the image below.
If you would like a résumé critique, please contact Debra Wheatman at debra@careersdonewrite.com or visit us at http://careersdonewrite.com. The Résumé Help blog appears weekly on Mondays.
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