Even though you need to know what to include in your resume, you also need to find out what you should not do with your resume.
When you begin searching for a new job, many of those around you will be quick to tell you that one of the most important aspects of landing a job is your resume.
They will advise how your resume should be current, captivating, honest, and unique. Although they will tell you these things, people often forget to tell you what you should avoid when writing your resume.
In our struggling economy, the competition for getting a job is usually fierce. To maximize your chances of getting the job you desire, you have to possess an outstanding resume. Nothing mediocre will work effectively.
Uniqueness is the key to creating an exceptional resume. If you can create a resume that stands out from the rest, it will get you noticed. The first step is to avoid overused phrases.
There is an unspoken template of resume lingo that seems to have circulated in the job seekers’ circle. These words and phrases have been seen repeatedly by so many employers that they have become mundane.
Instead of using a range of general phrases, provide detailed information regarding your skills and accomplishments. Employers need to know in detail what you have to offer their business. To put this in a better perspective, place yourself in an employer’s position.
Doing so will help you understand what they are looking for in a candidate. As an employer, they may want an individual who is an outstanding employee, can lead if the occasion arises, can work on multiple projects simultaneously, and can hand over the reins and complete tasks on time when needed.
Listed below are a few overused phrases to avoid:
1.) Team Player
Change this into a detailed sentence, i.e., Strong commitment to group projects and the environment, lead when necessary, and implement effective strategies. This indicates you can take charge and follow directions.
2.) Daily Customer Contact
A detailed sentence may include: Interacted with customers daily to promote customer satisfaction and increase customer retention. Detailing what you have completed sounds action-orientated and professional.
3.) Track Record of Success
Re-phrase as: ‘Surpassed sales goals by 20% yearly’. This is communicating clearly to the potential employer that you have what it takes to surpass expectations.
4.) Point of Contact Person
Phrase it this way: Elected by general management to supervise and lead special projects. Again, the general theme of your resume is to sell yourself as a productive employee, don’t just state what you did at your last job, but state what you did and why.5.) Partnered with Others”
Re-phrase as: Ability to partner with individuals from different company departments to create and implement new sale techniques and strategies.
The strength of your resume can either lead to a job interview or a rejection. You have to impress a potential employer with your resume, so be sure to keep the information you provide clear and concise.
Follow the steps described above and do not waste your time or theirs by adding useless fluff. Employers want to know your value to them. Let them know quickly what you have to offer. Don’t make them have to read between the lines.
What other resume no-nos can you offer job seekers? Comment and share below! If you need additional assistance, reach out to Candace to learn more!