Writing a resume isn't the easiest task to accomplish, but many jobs and most careers require it when applying for a position with their organization. Writing a good resume may take some skill and effort, but it will be worth it in the end since it is a document that vouches for your qualifications and competes against other resumes that have been submitted for the same position. It might be easier than you think to create a resume that will put you over the top, but there are definitely some things you should not do when writing it. Some unusual examples of resume submissions include white text on black paper, a resume on a shoe box, or text on bright colored paper decorated with animals. Truly, a resume reflects your professional strengths and should exhibit this in its presentation. While you might not have to worry about discouraging your job opportunity by turning in a resume written on a shoe box, there are definitely some common resume writing mistakes that you should keep in mind to avoid.
Standing Out in Extremity
Being conventional is the best choice. Hiring managers want to be able to focus on your qualifications and skills, not the creativity demonstrated on your document. Do not use unusual fonts or images on your resume. Avoid colored paper, and stick to white or cream. Higher-quality paper has a light-colored watermark that shows the manufacturer's logo. If using paper with a watermark, print your resume with the watermark on the front-side of the document.
Using Paragraphs and Sentences
While paragraphs and sentences are great for essays and reports, bullet points are best for resumes. Hiring managers most likely have a lot of resumes to review, and may be more interested in being able to read your information at a glance.
Including Dull Job Descriptions
Listing all the responsibilities at your last job is not as important as including your achievements. Achievements are evidence of your abilities, and tell more about what you are capable of accomplishing.
Too Short or Too Long
A good rule of thumb for the length of your resume is to submit the number of pages according to your work experience. If you have 5 years of experience or less, you should have 1 page for your resume. 10 years to 15 years may warrant a 2-page resume; whereas 15 years or more has probably earned 3 pages. You must also take into consideration the type of job experience you have had. A more advanced career is more likely to look well on 2 or 3 pages than a job with less required skills, training, or education. For the most part, if you are unsure, stick with one page to avoid boring the recruiter.
Font Too Small
Trying to get more on a page by shrinking the font is not a good idea. It makes it hard to read and may end up being in the discard pile before your qualifications are ever discovered.
Getting too personal
As much as you enjoy telling people how you like to take relaxing walks on the beach, this information is probably irrelevant to the job you are seeking, and takes up valuable space on your resume.
Misspelled Words and Poor Grammar
Spelling and grammar mistakes can discourage an interview regardless of how qualified you might be for the job. Spell-check your resume and find someone to proof read it before sending it in.
Paying attention to quality and details can help you produce a well-written resume that represents your best skills and abilities. It is worth spending the time to prepare your resume so that you can rise above the rest, and put yourself closer to obtaining the job you desire.
Jason Kay is a professional resume writer. He contributes to career magazines and websites such as the JobGoRound blog.
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