Every week, I review the latest resumes on air at jobtalkamerica. Over the last couple of months, I’ve begun to notice some of what I refer to as “terrible trends in resumes.” They’re the most common mistakes job applicants make- and they’re not aware that they’re doing it! (How do you correct the problem if you don’t be aware of what the issue is!) So, I’m here to help you see the bigger picture and (hopefully) start securing your interviews. Below are the five most problematic weaknesses (the five most frequent) that people often ignore on resumes.

THE FONT

You might not think that the font you select for your resume is crucial, but it conveys more than you imagine. Choose a font that is too small, and your documents are challenging to read, and the manager who is hiring you will not even put any effort into the document. If you choose a font that’s too big, you’ll appear unprofessional and unprofessional. Make use of Times New Roman, and you’ll transmit a message subliminally that you’re boring a mediocre lemming. You’re like everybody else. The attire you wear to an interview creates a first impression on the person hiring you, as does the font and style of your resume.

SUBPAR SUBTITLES

The words “SUMMARY,” “PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE,” or “WORK History” are getting a lot of use. They also waste space and don’t inform the prospective employer anything about the accomplishments you’ve made. Instead, you should use precise subtitles. On the top of your resume, you should not use the word “CAREER SUMMARY”; instead, include your desired job title. So, every when you submit a resume for a job, it’s tailored to the specific job. The same is true for “PROFESSIONAL Experience.” If you’re working in IT and you are an administrator for projects, make the name change to “PROJECT Management Experience.” Also, if the position is one of executive level, don’t make use of the header “PROFESSIONAL Experience” when you write your resume. This is a significant error. It sends a confusing message. In one section of your resume, you’re saying you’re an executive, while in another, you’re saying that you’re a professional. Keep the same tone throughout the resume.

Powerful Personal Branding for Business

If the world knew how effective a personalized resume could be, everyone would have one. However, the majority of people are unaware. Here’s a secret piece of advice: Get a clue! In the shadow of that shiny new job title or target you’ll put on the uppermost part of your CV, add the brief explanation of your qualifications to be the best (insert the job’s title below) you can be (or have ever been)! Take the time to explain why you’re a perfect candidate for the job.

GENERIC COVER A LETTER

What is the point of wasting time and space? Do you wish to bore the manager you are interviewing? Engage him and convince him to look over your resume. The cover letter you send should not be a copy of your resume. Take the time to research the organization to which you’re applying. Learn the requirements of their company, then describe in your cover letter how you can assist them in meeting their requirements. This will indeed distinguish you from the other applicants. When you’re doing it, Don’t begin your letter of introduction with the typical “Please Accept the following… ” “In reply… ” Your resume isn’t a popular candidate. You don’t compete with the crowd. You stand out! Therefore… demonstrate it to the manager you’re hiring!

Refusing to Thank

How many people are missing the boat in this regard? Make sure to express your gratitude to the hiring manager for their time and also to explain the reason you’re excited about (and are the perfect fit for) the job. As I’m sure, you know that the majority of people don’t write a thank-you note. In more than ten years working in the HR field as a manager or recruiter, I’ve been able to think of a hand-full amount of thank you notes or cards I’ve received. Mark your presence; be memorable and polite. Write a note, sign the contract and send the thank-you letter.

Choose a more thoughtful method for your search for a job and begin contemplating what makes you stand different from others, instead of doing the same thing you’ve always done or similar to what others are doing.