The followings are some of the pitfalls that you should avoid when writing a good resume:
1. Too Lengthy
The reviewer (usually a recruiter or the HR practitioner) will most probably be screening through hundreds of resumes within a day, and will not have a lot of time reading the details. If your resume is too lengthy (more than 5 pages) and/or your cover letter is more than a page, chances are your resume will be deleted away.
2. All About Yourself Only
Writing a good resume is not about who you are, and what you do. Instead add it more pointers on how your experiences can be of value to the company, especially on your transferable skills and accomplishments. Focus on what you can do for the company through your experiences and accomplishments than just merely stating it. You maybe were managing a project of different nature. So you can simply stated that your project management skills will allow you to take on ah-hoc related projects, etc.
3. Spelling & Grammatical Errors
Some companies may have little tolerance on such mistakes. So make sure your proofread it again and again, and get a third party to do another round of proofread. This is the worse pitfall, and also the easiest mistake to make.
4. The Wrong Type Of Font (Resume Formatting)
Do not use fanciful fonts. A safe bet will be using Times New Roman or Arial. It is easy to read. And make sure your paragraphs are sufficient spaced apart. If it is too cramped, the reviewer will be discouraged to read on. Remember, you are writing a good resume, not a fanciful resume.
5. Contact Information Wrongly Placed
Putting the contact information on the front page will allow the reviewer to have access to your contact number easier. That is the most important aspect. Your sole purpose of writing a good resume is to attract them to contact you. Putting your contact information at the wrong place will discourage them to contact you.
Only put your picture if you think that will enhance your chances, especially if your job requires meeting up with customers. A pleasant appearance will definitely be an advantage. However, if you do not have a proper picture, it will also be fine.
Writing a good resume is not difficult. If you avoid the above mentioned pitfalls, it will surely increase the chances of getting interviews.
To Your Success,
Allan Heng
0 comments:
Post a Comment