A word to the wise on stretching the truth on résumés: Don't.
Many
professionals -- especially those who are just starting their
careers -- are tempted to pad their résumés in an attempt to look more
impressive to potential employers. The frustration of a long job search
has also caused more than a few applicants to embellish their résumés.
But
being dishonest about previous positions, qualifications or degrees can
quickly land you in hot water. It calls into question your integrity
and will quickly eliminate you from consideration.
Many
companies perform background and reference checks on prospective
employees, and just a small white lie is enough to disqualify someone.
It takes only one quick call to a previous boss or a university office
of the registrar to uncover a falsehood -- putting an end to your
chances of securing the job. If an overstatement is initially
overlooked, it could still come back to haunt you, even once you're
employed.
So keep your résumé real. Tailor it and your
cover letter to the position you seek, clearly explaining how your skill
set and previous experience align with the job requirements. Following
are some additional tips to help you create an impressive résumé that
speaks the truth:
Stick to the facts
Including keywords that match phrases from the job description in your résumé and cover letter is one way to help you catch a hiring manager's eye. For example, if you are applying for an entry-level Web design job that requires "advanced Photoshop skills," include "Photoshop" in your résumé and highlight projects you've worked on that entailed extensive use of this application. Just be sure the keywords you include accurately reflect your background.
Including keywords that match phrases from the job description in your résumé and cover letter is one way to help you catch a hiring manager's eye. For example, if you are applying for an entry-level Web design job that requires "advanced Photoshop skills," include "Photoshop" in your résumé and highlight projects you've worked on that entailed extensive use of this application. Just be sure the keywords you include accurately reflect your background.
Make the connection
Many job candidates assume that if their résumé generates only tepid interest from employers, it must be because their qualifications fall short of the company's requirements. But in many cases, the bigger problem is how their experience is presented. A résumé isn't just a list of facts -- it should paint a portrait of who you are and what you can do for an employer.
Many job candidates assume that if their résumé generates only tepid interest from employers, it must be because their qualifications fall short of the company's requirements. But in many cases, the bigger problem is how their experience is presented. A résumé isn't just a list of facts -- it should paint a portrait of who you are and what you can do for an employer.
Perhaps the most common résumé mistake
is not being specific enough about your previous duties and
accomplishments. For example, if you are a database administrator,
noting that you "manage the company's databases" doesn't tell an
employer exactly what you did. Did you troubleshoot problems? Make key
business decisions related to the database? Supervise employees?
Put
yourself in the employer's shoes. He or she is trying to develop the
clearest possible sense of how you can contribute to the business. For
every position you've held, list several specific achievements and
explain how each benefited the company.
Don't sell yourself short
Every job candidate has weaknesses. But there are ways to turn perceived weaknesses into strengths. If you have only a few years of experience, for example, use your cover letter to highlight how your enthusiasm and ability to learn quickly can be assets.
Every job candidate has weaknesses. But there are ways to turn perceived weaknesses into strengths. If you have only a few years of experience, for example, use your cover letter to highlight how your enthusiasm and ability to learn quickly can be assets.
Your attitude also
can have an effect on your job search. If you've become convinced that
no one will hire you, you may inadvertently be conveying this pessimism
in your cover letter, making it a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Demonstrating confidence gives you an immediate edge on the competition.
A
truly successful job search isn't about doing whatever it takes to land
a job. It's about showing employers who you are and what you can
contribute. In doing so, you give yourself the best chance of getting a
foot in the door.