Resume Facts and Myths

Recently, I read a completely ridiculous article online that was supposed to put an end to old resume myths. From a professional standpoint, the author failed miserably. The article claimed it was ok to "stalk" or "cyber-stalk" so to speak your potential employer when they ask not to be contacted regarding an open application. I don't know about you but if an applicant found out where I hang out and showed up there just to ask me about a job, I'd be severely creeped out. News flash guys...that is NOT ok!

That article has been on my mind since I read it, and now I feel compelled to give my side of the story. Here goes!

1. Resumes should be no longer than one page.
Myth! While it is true that you do not want to bore the person reading your resume by making it too long, you want to be sure to include all the pertinent information regarding your professional experience. Your resumes main purpose is to highlight your work experience and the skills you have learned during your working career. If you’ve been in the game for over a decade, a good rule of thumb is to only include work experience dating back ten years. A fact you may not know is that it is ok to leave off references! A simple “References available upon request” will suffice.

2. An objective statement is crucial.
Myth! Objective statements are out and summary of qualifications are in. After all, isn’t your objective obvious…to find a job?! A quick summary of qualifications allows the employer to gain a brief overview of what you are experienced in, what you have learned, and what you are bringing to the table. Of course you still need to include your employment history as a way of detailing your professional experience as well as showcasing your length of employment at each location, but the summary of qualifications will catch the eye of the “resume skimmer”.  

3. It is ok to leave off previous jobs that are not relevant to the position you are applying for.
Myth! Excluding irrelevant jobs may seem like a smart idea, but the only thing the employer will see is a gap in work history. You don’t need to spend a lot of time outlining the duties you performed, but you definitely want to include it. Keep the focus where it will serve you best.

4. Cover letters are optional.
Myth! A cover letter is an employer’s first impression of you. It is a way of introducing yourself and your resume. Employers do not want to hire just anyone for the job; they are looking for an applicant who is specifically interested in their company. Your cover letter is a marketing tool that explains why you want to work for that specific company, not just any company that will hand over a paycheck. But what if a cover letter is not requested? Provide one anyway! If you are savvy on your job searching skills, you should know never to apply for a job without a resume, whether or not it is requested, so why should a cover letter be any different?

A few quick cover letter tips:

1.      It should only be one page in length

2.      Use a business format for dating and addressing your cover letter to the appropriate person. List his/her correct position.

3.      Only 3 paragraphs are needed:

a.       Introduction

b.      Job-matching paragraph

c.       Conclusion

My next blog will go into more detail regarding the formatting of a cover letter so check back for that.

A sample resume is attached. This resume is concise and to the point, but very detailed.