Submitted by Team Career Member and professional writer Leslee Remsburg, CPCC
1. An “Objective”
Do NOT write “…seeking a position that will utilize my sales/marketing abilities…”. Instead, define your expertise and highlight your strengths with statements like “Sales/Marketing Manager who increases revenue and market foothold on global scale offers proven success driving billion-dollar sales through integrated media.”
2. The word “responsible”
This is an absolute NO-NO on a résumé. Avoid starting every job description with “responsible for” or including this word anywhere in your document. Résumés where every sentence begins with a powerful action verb grab more attention than rundowns of basic “responsibilities”. Words such as “captured”, “catapulted”, and “championed” just to name a few will make your résumé a standout.
3. Work experience older than 15 years
It’s not relevant, which is what a résumé should be. Especially for those in the IT field, beware of listing outdated technologies on your résumé. These days, employers want to have cutting-edge, customized solutions to help them grow and transition in our expanding, global economy.
4. G.P.A.
Grade point average demonstrates academic qualities but means nothing in terms of on-the-job performance. How do you handle a crisis or make your work environment more efficient? Answers to those questions mean more. The only exception to the rule is for recent college graduates with little experience who have graduated within the last two years (according to the Professional Resume Writers Association and the National Resume Writers Association).
5. Personal interests
As a favor to yourself AND the hiring manager, don’t waste valuable space on your hobbies and family description. Focus on the facts and present material that is attention-grabbing and demonstrates workplace value to any potential employer.
Leslee has been a professional resume writer since 2005; her experience and wisdom is always appreciated… thank you Leslee!
dhuffman
Career Services International
Education Career Services
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