16 RESUME CRITICISMS
September 6th, 2007
The criticisms listed below are those most commonly expressed by resume readers. There is not one way to write a resume therefore, you will observe many of the criticisms are exact oppositions. What will appeal to one employer may not appeal to the other. You should always attempt to write your resume geared toward the individual who will be receiving your resume. The following are 16 criticisms of resumes:
1. Too Long – not concise, interesting and relevant.
2. Too Short – resume doesn’t provide enough information to draw any conclusions.
3. Too Condensed – paragraphs and sentences are too close together and difficult to read.
4. Too Wordy – many words are repeated and could have been condensed .
5. Too Slick –your resume is so well prepared that it is obvious that a professional put the resume together.
6. Too Amateurish – not able to express yourself. Lacks professionalism.
7. Sufficient Data Lacking – the material is insufficient for proper evaluation.
8. Resume is too Gimmicky – contains words or structure that are too far from the norm and are unacceptable.
9. Poorly Reproduced –your resume is not put together in a professional manner.
10. Misspellings and Poor Grammar Usage – today’s technology makes it completely unacceptable to spell a word incorrectly. These two skills are mandatory in almost every career,
11. Resume is Dishonest – any part of your resume that is untrue is completely unacceptable and not forgivable.
12. Resume is Boastful – confidence is good but overall bragging is too much to try to live up to.
13. Poorly Expressed – if you are unable to prepare your resume in order to get an interview, get assistance from someone who can help you.
14. Objective Omitted –it is important that you understand the opportunity and gear your objective toward that opening.
15. Gaps of Employment not Addressed – if the gap is obvious it should have some type of explanation, if it is a short period of time it can be omitted.
16. Inconsistencies – make sure everything on your resume is consistent. Inconsistencies are perceived as dishonest.
Check you resume against these 16 Criticisms and try to avoid them in order to increase your chances for booking yourself interviews! Best Wishes!
Nancy J. Phillips, CPC