Do You Make These Résumé Mistakes? 17 Résumé Don’ts from the CEO’s Desk

Image courtesy of istockphoto/SchulteProductions

Don’t use a functional (non-chronological) résumé format. You’re not fooling me with that. Don’t make me work to figure out what you’re hiding. Even if you get far into the hiring process in a non-traditional way, most companies will still want a traditional résumé at some point.
Don’t ignore metrics and quantifiable data. Businesses exist to move the needle. Explain in numbers what you personally did to help your organization improve. Did you save the company a million dollars? Did you improve sales beyond your targets by 23%? Did you renegotiate a major contract increase by 29%? Did you improve customer retention by 5%? The language of business is numbers.
Don’t send résumés to the CEO if you’re applying for positions deep in the organization. Try Human Resources. Try the hiring manager. Maybe try the department leader. Sending it to me doesn’t help. Do you think I read a résumé from someone I don’t know and immediately drop everything to make a phone call on your behalf?
Don’t apply for a job if you have zero experience with no explanation. If you really want a job in a new area, you will need another way in. Sending a résumé for a job completely out of your area of expertise will immediately set off loud warning bells. If you have a marketing degree, but want to move into sales, it’s possible, but you need to explain it. Show your commitment with an effective cover letter addressing the rationale behind your wish.
Don’t use automated, mass mailing services to send out your résumé to CEO’s. I get these every week. I recognize the same envelope, the same font and the same type. I throw them away without opening them. Some people swear by these services and say that it’s all about the numbers and the timing. It may depend on the position you are looking for and at what level in the organization. They’re not for me.
Don’t mark “personal and confidential” on an envelope to get my attention. If you somehow make it past all of the gatekeepers, I will not be very happy to find it is neither personal nor confidential, so I won’t likely help.
Don’t have someone else send a note for you if you haven’t applied yet. Better for you to apply and have that person send an email or supportive note. Here’s the question you don’t want a hiring manager to think about: Are you looking for special favors after you are hired, too?
Don’t use colored paper.
Don’t skip dates. If you have a gap in employment, explain it.
Don’t email a résumé without emailing it to yourself first. You should be the one to see whether it comes through email systems correctly.
Don’t send a résumé in a strange file format my computer cannot open. Try Word or PDF.
Don’t send in a résumé with grammar and spelling errors.
Don’t include a headshot or other picture.
Don’t include extraneous information not applicable to the job. For instance, are you applying to be a Marketing Director? Great, I don’t need to know that your personal interests include bungee jumping and travel. Save your interests to bond with an interviewer.
Don’t use abbreviations, especially internal corporate jargon from another company. Instead of being impressed, I will move on to someone who can communicate clearly.
Don’t ever lie. Don’t ever mislead. Don’t inflate.
Don’t have a résumé for every job you can dream up. Any more than three and it means you have no plan for your career. Work on your goals before you write a single word of your résumé.

Do you agree or disagree with the list? What “don’ts” would you add to this list? How do you make your résumé stand out? You can leave a comment by clicking here.

Please note: Your e-mail address will not be displayed. I do reserve the right to delete comments. See my comments policy.

Joe Somebody

Gotta love the condescending attitude from someone who is FORTUNATE enough to be in a position to give out jobs. I can only hope to be in the same position myself one day.
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  Though your comment is anonymous, I want to say that I never intended to be condescending. In fact, the reason for writing the post was to help job seekers. I want everyone looking to have the best chance of success possible. I also don’t want people to be taken advantage since some vendors are selling questionable services. I know looking for a job is tough, and the market is tough, so I am sorry if you thought I was condescending. Wishing you the best.
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André-Louis de la Bruyère

I am not sure whether I understood §17 correctly. I do not believe in standard CV’s. Even if I apply for the same job in three different companies, I customize every CV. This does not mean a complete rewrite of course. However, especially when applying to a job that was published, I do think that it is efficient to integrate in your CV the same kind of words that were used in the job description. If certain qualities are required, it is useful to highlight these qualities. Customizing every CV is in my view customary, especially in our era where sometimes machines screen them and take the decision whether it will be seen by human eyes or not.
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  If you have the time to customize your CV, that’s great. Especially if you are really, really hoping for a specific one that may be helpful. What I am referring to is when people have dozens of different types of resumes (say one each for sales, marketing, supervisory, customer service, marketing for industry x, sales for industry y, new sales, relationship sales, national sales director, etc., etc.). In that case, the person hasn’t really thought through career goals and focus. For each person, that line is different, but it’s important to know where your own line is. What you are doing makes sense to me.
Bettie

As a former senior HR professional and current resume writer (I did both for 20 years), I disagree with a blanket “nix” on functional resumes. I often use a hybrid version that has functional competency areas AND a reverse chron listing of employment. Many of my clients have 25+ years of experience, often in the same field/industry, and to ignore the commonalities in their skill/function areas over jobs and career AND their longevity in the industry does not do them justice.
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  Bettie, than you for your comment. I appreciate you taking the time to write and add your opinion. The above was purely my own opinion and reaction to functional resumes. I’ve always found them more difficult to read, but that’s just my opinion. The hybrid version also sounds different enough to grab my attention. Again, thanks for adding to the conversation.
http://twitter.com/LFrank_MA Lisa Frank

Great article – having just gone through a job search I agree with the other points in comments that sometimes too many opinions can lead to a very confused resume.

I did have a question throughout my search regarding metrics. I am 17 years into my career and did not collect metrics – I realize now that was a mistake. What do you recommend in this situation? And if your roles (product management, product marketing) are not tied as directly to certain numbers, what do you recommend?

Even though I’m not actively searching, I do update my resume every 3-4 months to get an accurate description of what I’m doing in my current role.
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  Lisa, thanks for the comment. I appreciate you visiting. More importantly, I wish you much success in your career.
  
  Updating your resume every 3-4 months seems like a big effort. Doing it at the same time as your annual review may be enough. Up to you.
  
  Here’s an idea. If you need metrics, you may find that someone else on your team collected them. You could ask for team achievements during your tenure.
  
  Here’s my opinion on jobs that are not tied to numbers. Whatever the standard is will be important. If few have metrics, then expectations will be lower. Some jobs may require samples of your work.
  
  Even more important for job success is that you should look for metrics even if you aren’t in a place traditionally tied to numbers. Business works in the language of numbers. So you should talk with your boss and create a dashboard and measurement system that works. Jobs must be quantified or they are at risk. You can almost always find something. At the very least, you can start a customer survey (internal or external customers) and see how your customers feel about your contributions and services. Measure the number. Take it again later. That can become a metric.
  
  Others may have some good ideas on this as well. Good question.
  - http://twitter.com/LFrank_MA Lisa Frank
    
    Thank you for your response. I hadn’t viewed some of my past accomplishments in that light. This does raise an additional question. If I do need to ‘ballpark’ some past metrics, should I leave them off my resume altogether or still include them? I am still in touch with colleagues from several past companies. One in particular will have a gap, but otherwise I can probably get back to 2005.
    
    Great ideas – thanks again!
    - http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
      
      Lisa, I’d recommend you talk to someone who specializes in resumes if you have specific questions. Without seeing your specifics and your situation, I’m only able to give my perspective and opinion on the general observations I have from resumes I see. The first rule, above all, is to be 100% accurate and honest with anything you have on your resume. The word “ballpark” concerns me and that’s why I’d recommend someone looking at this with you. You don’t want to mislead. Better to leave off metrics than to veer into an area where you are guessing or estimating.
      - http://twitter.com/LFrank_MA Lisa Frank
        
        Makes sense – thanks again for your insights!
http://twitter.com/EricHandler Eric Handler

Skip,
I enjoyed the read of your 17 resume don’t. I think they are all very good and on point. As an executive search consultant, I’ve seen a lot of resumes…

I would add to the conversation on point 17 to say, once you’ve updated and refined your resume…leave it alone. My informal survey of jobseekers leads me to believe that resumes are being update 2 or 3 times a week based on an opinion received. Generally speaking, once you’ve got it, leave it alone.

I also enjoyed point #3 and encourage seekers to pick up the phone themselves because not many people do.

Thanks,
Eric
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  Eric, thanks for adding to the conversation. You see resumes and candidates weekly, so I appreciate your add.
Jen

Thank you for this great article. As an HR Generalist, I have seen way too many resumes which contain these mistakes. I immediately file them and move on quickly to a resume that has merit. One word of advice for stay at home moms – make sure you state you were a SAHM when you have a gap. Believe me, most SAHMs use their skills! I did with my 6 kids
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  I absolutely agree. It can be very positive experience, and no doubt there are a number of skills you learn!
Kaguirre

Great info! Thank you!
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  Thank you for dropping by.
http://danblackonleadership.com/ Dan Black

This is a great list. I’m currently looking for a new job and these points will help. Thanks for sharing them.
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  Dan, I want to wish you the best as you search for a new job and determine where to work. I know firsthand that it can be stressful.
  - http://danblackonleadership.com/ Dan Black
    
    Thank you. It’s not so bad because I have a job right now. It can still be frustrating and stressful because of the job market.
http://successbeginstoday.org/wordpress John Richardson

Personally Skip, resumes suck! I have never had any luck sending out resumes, no matter what the format is. On the other hand, I’ve had great results by building relationships with key people, usually through organizations like Toastmasters and Rotary. When you get to know people well and build friendships, opportunities just seem to come up.

While a resume or job application is necessary for the H.R. department, it should really be a secondary consideration when looking for a great job. Build a network of friends and associates in the field you are looking at and you’ll be surprised at the response. I can honestly say that every job I’ve ever had was because of knowing someone… many times a friend of a friend, who told me about an opportunity and helped me get my foot in the door.
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  John, I do agree that relationships and networking are important. You’re right. But today people are overlooking the power of a good resume. It still does wonders. Often a relationship may provide an opportunity, but soon enough a resume is requested. The bigger the company, the more important this may be.
  Said another way: do you know how many people have made it to an interview based on a relationship, then have nothing? No paperwork. No basic research about the job or the company. It’s like he or she expects that they will be hired just because of knowing someone. Then someone else, without a connection, proves she is the right hire. Not just the resume, also the preparation and research. A connection is powerful if it is the starting point. Having that advantage is awesome, but I still believe you cannot neglect the basics.
  Thanks for stopping in.
  - http://successbeginstoday.org/wordpress John Richardson
    
    Back in the mid 90′s I changed careers and I did a lot of retraining. I took a couple of resume classes and practiced interviewing. Once I had completed my certification in computer networking, I sent out almost a 100 resumes to various companies. Depending on the job title I adjusted the cover letter and type of resume. I spent hours researching different jobs and tried to get the specific keywords right. I hate to say it, but I never received one response for an interview. I’ve never been so frustrated in all my life. I guess that’s why it’s such a hot button item for me.
    
    I went to a job fair, talked with recruiters, and finally ended up with a recruiting firm. Once I signed up with the job search company, they were actually able to get me in for interviews. Once I got to this point, a resume and cover letter became important.
    
    It’s interesting, I actually think I would send out a resume in infographic format now. I’ve seen some very clever ones and it would certainly get you noticed. I would probably also include a standard format one, in case they scanned them.
    
    I’m curious, what would you think if you received one like that?
    - http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
      
      John, it really depends on how good it is. It’s taking a risk, but perhaps one worth taking. I’m not surprised by your experience in sending out a lot of resumes. It’s always better to look for a connection first. But when you do get that, I think you need a solid resume. If you don’t have one, and need to send them blindly, then a mass mailing may help. If you are doing a large mailing, then I would say an infographic or something to differentiate it may indeed help.
Kathy

Thanks for the great list. I am a non-traditional college student and professors are telling me to create resumes’ tailored to the specific job. I never really bought into that idea and did not think it was necessary. Thanks for confirming what I already knew.
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  Kathy, if you spend all of that time customizing resumes, you will have a zillion versions, won’t remember which one goes to what job. I think it’s better to spend time on your cover letter, email, and especially your networking.
Dave Ketter

I wonder if the functional resume use depends on how it’s organized. My work experience, even at 23 has been incredibly diverse so when applying for work, I do tend to categorize my work experience beginning with the most relevant category (but each category is still chronological, beginning with the most recent).
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  Dave, it likely does matter. Generally it seems that people are stretching the categories and functions. It’s always a good idea to have a few outsiders look at it and give you some good advice. Thanks for the comment.
http://twitter.com/dbuckham David Buckham

This is a great list. Skip, I have no doubt that you see TONS of resumes, but how many of these do you think are your specific preferences or opinions? Would you say that a resume needs to be tailored to fit the job you are applying for?
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  David, I readily admit these are my preferences, but I also believe they represent the “majority” opinion. I’m also not a believer in all of the custom work and specific tailoring for each job. That’s a lot of work. Better to craft a really good resume, and then spend your time customizing your cover letter and introduction. This is all my opinion only.
http://www.lincolnparks.com Lincoln Parks

This is great Skip because as an Entrepreneur in a family business that is expanding it gives you insight into what people would do when looking for jobs. I need to pass this on to others I know are looking for jobs and what not to do. Great Post!
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  Thanks, Lincoln. I hope it helps.
Joyce Skokut

Great post and looking forward to one on interviewing! I have a long “wish list” for interviewees and do often stop mid-interview to coach them if they’re really floundering and I know they’re not the right fit. It can be hard to be forthright, but if done with good intentions, seems like the kind thing to do.
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  I’m taking any suggestions for that post. Thanks!
Leah Milliken

Thanks Skip, thought the feedback was interesting about career changing and how to use your cover letter to help. Wait, I work for Ingram, did that come out wrong?

I’m with you 100% re: using clear and understandable language. When I’m the interviewer, I have been known to put the resume aside and ask the candidate to tell me in plain words about their previous experience. It’s fine if you shelved books at your local bookstore, just tell me that, rather than saying you were a ‘Book Logistics Specialist’.

I would love to see you do a post on interview tips as well. I have been sorely tempted as the interviewer to stop candidates and coach them so that they have a better shot at success the next time.
- N. David Griffin
  
  Great point about being straightforward regarding language and results. I do not think most people writing resumes for themselves realize precisely how damaging ‘buzz words’ and bureaucratic jargon can be to their first impression – and that’s what the Resume is. Just be honest and straightforward.
  
  If job seekers are clear in their communication and positive in their outlook I think most people will find they have more that recommends them than they realize – and they will also be better equipped to find a job that suits them rather than just wind up fighting for a role that neither they nor their employer will be happy with their performance in.
  - http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
    
    Absolutely agree with this. Thank you for the comment.
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  Excellent comment. Thanks and I will do an interview post. Good idea.
George Tattersfield

I confess, I like the Person Interests parts of a resume, when done well. By which I mean, they should be a kind of teaser to make me want to learn more about the person. So, l earning that a person likes cats and travel does not excite me. But I once had a resume that said the person used to be a “radio personality,” and when I asked him about it, the backstory told me more about his character than anything I had heard up to that point. It’s still, a year after hiring him, the thing I remember most about that interview. I also find that when I’m having trouble getting past an interviewee’s defenses, asking about the personal interests items gets them to immediately relax and open up a little.

I do hate colored paper, though. Also paper that is the thickness of a paper plate that is intended to convey ”I am a deluxe individual, you can tell from my exquisite taste in expensive paper” but really just says “I believe that you are easily impressed. I also hope this paper will distract you from my otherwise flimsy resume.”

And please, don’t get me started on fonts…

So is there going to be another list of “Interview Don’ts” ?
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  Thanks for the comments. To me “radio personality” is professional versus “Enjoys sewing, needlepoint and playing softball.” It’s an art, isn’t it, to know what to use to entice an interviewer?
  Good idea on the post on interview don’ts.
Steve Pate

Ah, if we could only use your list as a filter. Applicants would have to grade themselves against these 17 basic requirements. Then only those with scores of 16 or 17 would be allowed in. Fantasy aside, applicants sending out résumés should heed your warning–if they want serious consideration for an open position.
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  I like that. Self score.
Greg Brown

This was a good list but I happen to disagree with the very first rule. Granted, I don’t see nearly the volume of resumes that Skip does, but I like the functional resumes if I am looking for a some specific skill sets. The functional resume pulls out the skills that I need to verify rather than making me hunt across a chronological resume. As part of the functional resume, I expect a section showing just the employment history.
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  Greg, great to see your opinion. I know some people like them. I suspect that you are in the minority, but that’s just a guess.
http://mybrowneyedview.com/ msladydeborah

There is so much advice currently available on how to submit a resume. I decided to stick to the one that I generated because it is a good picture of my work history and what skills I have developed. I am going to make an adjustment after reading this post because I did take time off to spend with my dad due to his declining health. I was told not to include this information but I believe that it is necessary to give some type of accounting for the gap.
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  Deborah, you call that time off? There are debates over how to handle gaps (in the interview, in the cover letter, in the resume). It’s up to you. I think you can list “Caretaker” and explain it just as you would anything else. After all, it’s not an easy job. And you learn skills while doing it, too.
  - http://mybrowneyedview.com/ msladydeborah
    
    I appreciate your response Skip. I just encountered the gap question for the first time recently on an application. I wrote caretaker for my parent. I like the idea of using that experience as a skill based situation as well. Thanks for sharing your perspective with me.
    - http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
      
      You are welcome, and I hope it helps you. To your success!
      - http://mybrowneyedview.com/ msladydeborah
        
        I am experiencing some success in my new career pathway. I have been extended an invitation to work with the Social Media team at my church for the outreach ministry that I work for. It’s not a paid position but it is one that will give me the opportunity to do some active learning and contributing.
        I also just got hired for the evening desk position there as well. Change is slow but it does happen.
http://michaelhyatt.com Michael Hyatt

Great list, Skip. I wish I had had this when I was a sitting CEO!
- http://www.skipprichard.com/ Skip Prichard
  
  Thanks. These 17 thoughts just came out when I was going through a pile of them…

Skip Prichard | Leadership Insights

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Do You Make These Résumé Mistakes? 17 Résumé Don’ts from the CEO’s Desk

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