Resumes: A Cautionary Tale

I’ve got it. I know why so many talented people can’t find jobs. Their resumes suck.

That’s not a word I use very often, but in this case it is the only way to describe what I’ve seen of late. I sent out an offer to my email newsletter subscribers to take a look at their resumes for free–to give them a quick diagnostic on what’s working and what’s not.

Suffice it to say that very little was working. Here is a list of the most egregious (and simple to fix) errors:

1. Too much information

Why do we feel we have to throw-in everything but the kitchen sink? It doesn’t matter what you did in high school or the fact that you enjoy reading and bungee jumping. Stick to the brand you are trying to convey. Remember that all great brands convey a single message. What’s yours? Then build your resume around it.

2. Not enough “white space”

I mean, how many places can your eyes goes at any one time? Give me a clean, well laid out, organized precis that leads me to a single conclusion: you’re the person I MUST hire.

3. Lack of a compelling theme or brand

How should I think about you? How do you want to be perceived? Once you’ve answered this question, choose words that support your message.

4. Too many/ not enough use of bullets

Show me that you can write in full sentences, but give me bullets under the major headings. Packing in too much dense narrative studded with buzz words only gives me a headache.

5. Lack of confidence

You are your own best evangelist. Remember this. No one else is going to promote your unique skills and talents better than you co. Don’t be afraid to use words like “experienced” and “leading.” Take credit for your accomplishments.

Want a quick take on your resume? Just send it along……..

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