- Objective is Not Clear (Too General)
We have all heard about those people who have worked in jobs they have grown to hate; they have become bored and uninspired in their day-to-day work. To avoid becoming a victim of the “bored worker”, it is essential that you take the time to find work that merges nicely with your natural skills. Finding a position that works well with your personality and abilities will ensure happiness, satisfaction, and success in your career.
- Standardized Cover Letter (Uninspiring)
Almost every employer can spot a mass produced, standardized letter from a mile away. Your cover letter is essentially the first contact you may have with an employer, so it is best to take the time and customize your letter, focusing on a potential employer's business motivations.
You will need different cover letters for different job postings or positions. When responding to a specific job posting, remember to send a cover letter that matches the job requirements and qualifications. Keep in mind, when applying to a specific posting, always include the competition number, or your document could end up in the wrong folder or in the “round” filing cabinet.
- Poorly Developed or Mediocre Resume
Recruitment officers and potential employers are bombarded with hundreds of resumes daily. Therefore, it is essential that your resume sets you apart from the competition. Ensure that your resume is clear and concise with one career objective that is supported by accomplishments that emphasize the benefits you can bring to the company.
- Not Using Keywords in Your Resume
Keywords are specific nouns and action verbs that effectively describe specific terms that are used in your occupation or job industry and make it possible for your resume to be scanned into a database and searched. Keywords can also include specific terms used by employers and recruiters, such as those that describe your education and work experience.
The use of keywords has become so important in resume development that it is entirely acceptable to provide a listed keyword section within your document. However, your resume will appear professional and less conspicuous if your keywords remain blended within your text, profile, and skill summary.
- Not Including Accomplishments in Your Resume
Your resume is your personal marketing tool, and keywords and achievements play a vital part. When describing your professional accomplishments, be sure to use influential keywords to stress the importance of your achievements. Modesty has no place here! Where appropriate, utilize industry lingo, if you are seeking a job similar to your current position.
Format your accomplishment-driven resume in an eye-pleasing manner. Don't cluster your accomplishments and responsibilities as one. Instead, simply write an overview of your responsibilities in paragraph format, and draw attention to your accomplishments with a bulleted list. Remember, don't place everything in a paragraph, and likewise, don't place everything in a bulleted list. Your aim is to draw the employer's eye to the important selling parts.
About the Author
Candace Davies, Owner of A+ Resumes for Teachers, is a Global Career Management Professional dedicated to assisting educators worldwide to leverage their strengths, accomplishments, and unique selling points to capture their dream position. Her team has successfully assisted 3000-plus education professionals by transforming their talents into concise documents that secure numerous interviews, leading to excellent job offers. Candace is certified as a Professional Resume Writer, Certified Employment Interview Professional, Certified Interview Coach, Certified Electronic Career Coach, and Certified Career Coach. Please visit her website at resumes-for-teachers.com, send her an email to candoco@telus.net, or call toll-free 877-738-8052.
