Common Resume Mistakes That Must be Avoided

Having gone through hundreds of resume, I have noticed certain patterns and mistakes that most people make while preparing their resume. In this article, we will discuss some mistakes that we have come across most often. Some of them are as follows:

1. Resume Lacks Resume: Most resumes lack focus which is the major reason behind most resumes being rejected. Given that employers don't spend more than 20 seconds on a resume, it should be strong enough to grab the attention of the employer. One way to do the same is by writing a sharp objective statement. The objective statement can be very simple and straightforward, simply speaking about the position you are applying for. Sections like summary of qualifications, profile etc. can be also be added to sharpen your focus.

2. Resumes are Responsibilities Driven: Generally it has been noticed that job lookers include expressions like "Duties included," "Responsibilities included," or "Responsible for", which are not much appreciated by employers. Resume should primarily focus on accomplishments that you have achieved and that set you apart from other job applications.

3. CV's Fail to Capture Reader's Interest: One rule of CV writing says that items in CV should be listed in a manner that they are able to grasp the reader's attention. Information on the CV should be listed in order of importance. For instance, while listing information about your previous jobs, most important thing is your title/position. So, list in this preferred order: Title/position, name of employer, city/state of employer, dates of employment. Similarly other section like education should be done in a particular order.

4. Important Skills like Computer Skills Listed in the Bottom: While composing the CV's Job-seekers generally end up mentioning important skills like computer skills at the bottom. If these or any other skills are relevant to your field, it is highly recommended that you list them in your Summary or Profile Section.

5. Resume Lacks Presentation: An attractive and well presented resume is must. Make use of bullets and demarcation marks to make your resume a user-friendly, thus increasing your chances of being called for an interview.

6. Resume Lacks Keywords: Job-hunting today revolves around keywords. Employers depend upon keywords technology to find the right job candidates. So, if your resume is lacking keywords chances are that you will not be called for an interview that you may be best suited for.

7. References are Listed Directly on Resume: While preparing their CV's job lookers tend to directly list their references on resume, which is completely not advisable. It is suggested that you list them on a separate sheet and submit them only when specifically requested by an employer.

8. CV Templates Copied Exactly: CV templates are only to give you an idea on how a CV should like. Copying it word to word will go against your good will. Just take an idea and personalize it as per you needs.

Source: http://www.cv-blog.org/common-resume-mistakes-that-must-be-avoided/