Searching for a job?
Please do not send your resume from your current employer!
I am a recruitment manager and every resume that comes to us from a work email or fax (which I don't think people realize the company name is added to the top when sent), we trash them. I don't contact any of those applicants, no matter how qualified they are. Because do I really want somebody completely disloyal to their company.
Also keep in mind, recruiters generally make quick decisions: each resume gets between two seconds and two minutes—tops—to make a positive impression. How do you increase the chances that your resume is considered?
Eliminate fancy fonts. Although the font may appear creative and innovative, stick with Times New Roman or Arial. It makes it easier for the hiring manager to quickly see your background clearly.
Include dates!! Without dates listed, it impossible for the recruiter and hiring managers to ascertain how much experience you have. When recruiting for the right fit, the amount of experience and related knowledge plays an integral part in the hiring process.
Proofread and spellcheck. A typo or spelling error will almost guarantee that your resume will end up in the trash. If you can’t take the time to ensure accuracy on your resume, the employer isn’t going to trust you with their business.
Use bullets. It provides a clear concise view of your background. Under no circumstances is it okay to write your resume in the first person. There is no “I” in “resume”.
Use action and keywords. Employers look for words to accurately describe how you succeeded in your last position. Depending on the position, they may scan your resume specifically to see if you know a particular software or skill. Get to know your industry buzzwords and include them if they apply to you.
Eliminate unnecessary information. The employer does not need to know that you are 5’7” and enjoy starry walks on the beach. An employer may ask for your hobbies during an interview but it is not required to include them with your job history.
Include a cover letter. Do not omit this traditional step, but keep it brief. The employer needs to know what position you are interested in and why you are a fit.
If you pass the intial screen, the recruiter then does a focused reading of the resume, determining if the candidates’ overall qualifications and interests align with the current job openings. To keep your resume in the running, remember:
The objective should match the current openings.
Apply for jobs within the salary range you are requesting.
Considering relocating? If you are applying for a job outside of your home area, mention the relocation in the cover letter.
Don’t give too much information, leave something for the interview.
Make sure your education credentials match the job requirements.
Finally, having a long list of employers in a short period of time can be viewed as a negative. An employer wants to know you are not going to leave after six months. They are looking for an employee who is going to make a lasting contribution to their company.
I don't call resumes with tons of 'short stories'. Occassionally, it is not the employee's fault, obviously being laid off or if your husband is in the military, that is okay.
OKay, done off of my soapbox. I am just tired of weading through bad resumes!
![]()
I am a recruitment manager and every resume that comes to us from a work email or fax (which I don't think people realize the company name is added to the top when sent), we trash them. I don't contact any of those applicants, no matter how qualified they are. Because do I really want somebody completely disloyal to their company.
Also keep in mind, recruiters generally make quick decisions: each resume gets between two seconds and two minutes—tops—to make a positive impression. How do you increase the chances that your resume is considered?
Eliminate fancy fonts. Although the font may appear creative and innovative, stick with Times New Roman or Arial. It makes it easier for the hiring manager to quickly see your background clearly.
Include dates!! Without dates listed, it impossible for the recruiter and hiring managers to ascertain how much experience you have. When recruiting for the right fit, the amount of experience and related knowledge plays an integral part in the hiring process.
Proofread and spellcheck. A typo or spelling error will almost guarantee that your resume will end up in the trash. If you can’t take the time to ensure accuracy on your resume, the employer isn’t going to trust you with their business.
Use bullets. It provides a clear concise view of your background. Under no circumstances is it okay to write your resume in the first person. There is no “I” in “resume”.
Use action and keywords. Employers look for words to accurately describe how you succeeded in your last position. Depending on the position, they may scan your resume specifically to see if you know a particular software or skill. Get to know your industry buzzwords and include them if they apply to you.
Eliminate unnecessary information. The employer does not need to know that you are 5’7” and enjoy starry walks on the beach. An employer may ask for your hobbies during an interview but it is not required to include them with your job history.
Include a cover letter. Do not omit this traditional step, but keep it brief. The employer needs to know what position you are interested in and why you are a fit.
If you pass the intial screen, the recruiter then does a focused reading of the resume, determining if the candidates’ overall qualifications and interests align with the current job openings. To keep your resume in the running, remember:
The objective should match the current openings.
Apply for jobs within the salary range you are requesting.
Considering relocating? If you are applying for a job outside of your home area, mention the relocation in the cover letter.
Don’t give too much information, leave something for the interview.
Make sure your education credentials match the job requirements.
Finally, having a long list of employers in a short period of time can be viewed as a negative. An employer wants to know you are not going to leave after six months. They are looking for an employee who is going to make a lasting contribution to their company.
I don't call resumes with tons of 'short stories'. Occassionally, it is not the employee's fault, obviously being laid off or if your husband is in the military, that is okay.
OKay, done off of my soapbox. I am just tired of weading through bad resumes!