Your Resume: Some Myths & Misconceptions

Myth:  It is best to use your company’s written job description when creating your resume.

REALITY - Boring!  Regaling potential employers with a laundry list of job duties and responsibilities is NOT the way to impress them.  In this instance, it’s definitely okay to brag on yourself.  In fact, it’s expected.  State exactly how you performed your job better than anyone else could have.  Did you overcome obstacles or challenges?  How did you do it?  How did your company benefit from your success?  Have you received promotions, awards, or certificates?

Myth:  You must include an “Objective Statement” in your resume. 

REALITY – The “Objective Statement” is one of the biggest wastes of valuable space that ever existed!  Take it out.  It’s annoying and rarely reveals anything meaningful or pertinent.

Myth:  A resume should never be more than one page in length.

REALITY - The “one page” rule is ridiculous.  While you should definitely strive to keep your resume concise and to the point NEVER sacrifice detailing relevant experience or important achievements for the sake of saving space.  Having said that, it is also important to note that rambling on and on is not a good idea either!  Make sure that all information you provide reflects your skills and experience.  Don’t make the mistake of believing that quantity is a substitute for quality.  The goal of every sentence on your resume should be designed to get you that interview!

Myth:  Listing my hobbies and interests on my resume will show potential employers what a well-rounded person I am.

REALITY - Listing any type of personal interests or other information on your resume is never appropriate.  Chances are fairly high that your hobbies and interests will not be relevant in any way to the position for which you are applying.  Again, if it doesn’t help you get an interview, it doesn’t belong on your resume!

Myth:   No one will notice that one litle misstake.   

REALITY - Yes, they will. Did you notice our little mistake above? Your resume must be absolutely, positively perfect!  If you are very lucky, one typographical error only means you go to the bottom of the pile instead of directly to the trash can.  Does your resume contain more than one typo?  Forget it!  Mistakes say several things to employers.  They imply incompetence and lack of professionalism.  They also indicate that you don’t take your career seriously.

Now lets read about some do's and don'ts of resume writing. Click here.