5 answers
cole
Student
1
Question
Asked
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What are some of the biggest issues employers see in a job seekers resumes?
I have heard a number of things to avoid such as resumes being too long or not concise enough, I just want to know what are some main mistakes to avoid while creating my resume for work after college. It would also help greatly to express what things to do to help boost my resume for employers.
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5 answers
Aman Kumar
Software engineer
161
Answers
Hyderabad, Telangana, India
Updated
Aman’s Answer
Hi Cole,
It's great to hear that you're working on your resume as you prepare to enter the job market! Employers often see common issues that can undermine a job seeker's chances, so being aware of these can really give you the upper hand.
One major issue is the length and clarity of the resume. Many employers prefer resumes to be one page, especially for recent graduates. This means that every word counts, and you need to tailor information specifically for each position you apply for. Avoid including irrelevant experience or outdated skills; instead, highlight recent projects or internships that showcase transferable skills. For instance, if you worked on a group project in class that required teamwork and problem-solving, consider framing it as a project where you collaborated effectively under tight deadlines. This not only demonstrates your skills but also shows that you can apply your academic experiences practically.
Another common concern is grammatical errors and typos. Even the smallest mistake can create a negative impression. Before you send it out, consider having someone review your resume to catch anything you might have overlooked. Additionally, there's software like Grammarly that can help identify errors and improve readability.
Lastly, consider adding a section that highlights relevant soft skills that many employers value, like communication or adaptability. Soft skills can set you apart, especially when you're competing with other candidates who may have similar academic qualifications. Employers are often looking for someone who not only can do the job but also fits well within their corporate culture.
Good luck with your job search! You've got this!
It's great to hear that you're working on your resume as you prepare to enter the job market! Employers often see common issues that can undermine a job seeker's chances, so being aware of these can really give you the upper hand.
One major issue is the length and clarity of the resume. Many employers prefer resumes to be one page, especially for recent graduates. This means that every word counts, and you need to tailor information specifically for each position you apply for. Avoid including irrelevant experience or outdated skills; instead, highlight recent projects or internships that showcase transferable skills. For instance, if you worked on a group project in class that required teamwork and problem-solving, consider framing it as a project where you collaborated effectively under tight deadlines. This not only demonstrates your skills but also shows that you can apply your academic experiences practically.
Another common concern is grammatical errors and typos. Even the smallest mistake can create a negative impression. Before you send it out, consider having someone review your resume to catch anything you might have overlooked. Additionally, there's software like Grammarly that can help identify errors and improve readability.
Lastly, consider adding a section that highlights relevant soft skills that many employers value, like communication or adaptability. Soft skills can set you apart, especially when you're competing with other candidates who may have similar academic qualifications. Employers are often looking for someone who not only can do the job but also fits well within their corporate culture.
Good luck with your job search! You've got this!
Adit Sheth
Senior Software Engineer
130
Answers
Bellevue, Washington
Updated
Adit’s Answer
Employers often notice a few common issues in job seekers' resumes, and avoiding these can make a big difference:
Lack of Clarity and Focus: Resumes that are too lengthy or filled with irrelevant details can lose a hiring manager’s interest. Employers prefer concise, targeted resumes, generally one page (or two, if you have extensive experience) that directly address the role.
Lack of Keywords: Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that scan for specific keywords. If your resume lacks keywords from the job description, it might not even reach the hiring manager. Be sure to include relevant terms and skills for the role to improve your chances.
Absence of Quantifiable Achievements: Employers often see resumes filled with vague descriptions of duties. Instead, use specific accomplishments to make a stronger impression. For example, instead of saying “Managed a team,” say “Led a team of 5 on a project that increased efficiency by 20%.”
Poor Formatting: A cluttered resume with inconsistent fonts, sizes, or too much text can look unprofessional. Use a simple, readable format with consistent spacing and bullet points. Avoid using graphics unless you’re applying for a design role, and ensure that your resume is ATS-friendly.
Generic or Objective Statements: Employers may view generic objectives (e.g., “Seeking a challenging position...”) as outdated. Instead, start with a summary that highlights your key skills and strengths that match the job you're applying for.
To boost your resume, include an active LinkedIn profile, a portfolio link (if applicable), and any certifications or projects related to your field. Tailoring each resume to the specific job and including internships, volunteer work, and relevant coursework or skills will also make a positive impact on hiring managers.
Lack of Clarity and Focus: Resumes that are too lengthy or filled with irrelevant details can lose a hiring manager’s interest. Employers prefer concise, targeted resumes, generally one page (or two, if you have extensive experience) that directly address the role.
Lack of Keywords: Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that scan for specific keywords. If your resume lacks keywords from the job description, it might not even reach the hiring manager. Be sure to include relevant terms and skills for the role to improve your chances.
Absence of Quantifiable Achievements: Employers often see resumes filled with vague descriptions of duties. Instead, use specific accomplishments to make a stronger impression. For example, instead of saying “Managed a team,” say “Led a team of 5 on a project that increased efficiency by 20%.”
Poor Formatting: A cluttered resume with inconsistent fonts, sizes, or too much text can look unprofessional. Use a simple, readable format with consistent spacing and bullet points. Avoid using graphics unless you’re applying for a design role, and ensure that your resume is ATS-friendly.
Generic or Objective Statements: Employers may view generic objectives (e.g., “Seeking a challenging position...”) as outdated. Instead, start with a summary that highlights your key skills and strengths that match the job you're applying for.
To boost your resume, include an active LinkedIn profile, a portfolio link (if applicable), and any certifications or projects related to your field. Tailoring each resume to the specific job and including internships, volunteer work, and relevant coursework or skills will also make a positive impact on hiring managers.
Cynthia Doyle PT, DPT, CCI
Physical Therapist
12
Answers
Cheboygan, Michigan
Updated
Cynthia’s Answer
So much great information has been provided in answers already given, so I won't repeat any of that other than emphasizing that proper grammar and spelling are critical. So, use spellcheck, proofread many times, and have others proofread.
It is great to start each bullet point with an action verb. Current job should be in present tense, and past positions should be in past tense. Here is a web site with verb suggestions for different categories: https://enhancv.com/uk/blog/action-verbs-for-cv/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=google_performance_max_usa_search_intent&utm_term=&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADmzJlsoGN79GzF40noNNFhXGmd0Z&gclid=Cj0KCQjw1Yy5BhD-ARIsAI0RbXbkKiPgAAWVw8uDEO4Mo4bMHoOUt7WZ72PIf9zgeRntDX1pQJZ0shoaAos4EALw_wcB
Good luck!
Cindy
It is great to start each bullet point with an action verb. Current job should be in present tense, and past positions should be in past tense. Here is a web site with verb suggestions for different categories: https://enhancv.com/uk/blog/action-verbs-for-cv/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=google_performance_max_usa_search_intent&utm_term=&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADmzJlsoGN79GzF40noNNFhXGmd0Z&gclid=Cj0KCQjw1Yy5BhD-ARIsAI0RbXbkKiPgAAWVw8uDEO4Mo4bMHoOUt7WZ72PIf9zgeRntDX1pQJZ0shoaAos4EALw_wcB
Good luck!
Cindy
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1740
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
A few of the things I noticed when working with jobseekers:
1. Misspelled words and grammatical errors - lack of proofreading, lack of attention to detail
2. Use of non-professional email addresses (Lovemybeer@. . . . ), or email addresses containing personal protected information, such as year of birth. This shows a lack of awareness to the importance of protecting such data.
3. Lack of familiarity with their own resume, because someone else wrote it for them. So when I ask for more detail about a particular statement, they are lost and confused.
4. Starting every statement with "Responsible for." As in "Responsible for supervising a team of ten sales consultants." Just say you did it! "Supervised a team of . . . " (this was my pet peeve!)
I am a firm believer in cover letters. In it, you can write in a narrative form, and come across as a real human being who believes they can find a future with this particular company. It is a nice personal touch, in addition to the resume. You don't need to write one for every job you apply for - just the ones you really truly want.
As you embark on your career, please keep a folder/notebook or something that contains all the pertinent information of your previous employment - address, phone number, email addresses, dates of employment, starting and ending salary, etc. You will need this information when applying for other jobs.
Best of luck to you, Cole!
Kim
1. Misspelled words and grammatical errors - lack of proofreading, lack of attention to detail
2. Use of non-professional email addresses (Lovemybeer@. . . . ), or email addresses containing personal protected information, such as year of birth. This shows a lack of awareness to the importance of protecting such data.
3. Lack of familiarity with their own resume, because someone else wrote it for them. So when I ask for more detail about a particular statement, they are lost and confused.
4. Starting every statement with "Responsible for." As in "Responsible for supervising a team of ten sales consultants." Just say you did it! "Supervised a team of . . . " (this was my pet peeve!)
I am a firm believer in cover letters. In it, you can write in a narrative form, and come across as a real human being who believes they can find a future with this particular company. It is a nice personal touch, in addition to the resume. You don't need to write one for every job you apply for - just the ones you really truly want.
As you embark on your career, please keep a folder/notebook or something that contains all the pertinent information of your previous employment - address, phone number, email addresses, dates of employment, starting and ending salary, etc. You will need this information when applying for other jobs.
Best of luck to you, Cole!
Kim
Hanna K
Recruiting
3
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Hanna’s Answer
Be strategic when applying to jobs—the effort you put in up front can make a big difference in helping you stand out from other applicants. Submitting your resume is just the first step; go a little further. Often, you can find a recruiter linked to the job posting on LinkedIn or someone on the talent acquisition team who can help connect you with the right recruiter or hiring manager.
A few resume tips to keep you out of the “no” pile:
Use a professional file name for your resume, like "First Name.Last Name, Job Title."
Proofread thoroughly for grammar and spelling, then ask a friend to double-check for any missed errors.
Maintain consistent formatting throughout.
Apply to roles aligned with your experience. For example, avoid applying to a Front-end Engineer position if your background is in copywriting.
A few resume tips to keep you out of the “no” pile:
Use a professional file name for your resume, like "First Name.Last Name, Job Title."
Proofread thoroughly for grammar and spelling, then ask a friend to double-check for any missed errors.
Maintain consistent formatting throughout.
Apply to roles aligned with your experience. For example, avoid applying to a Front-end Engineer position if your background is in copywriting.