How about a resume that included time spent in jail for assaulting a former boss? This was a real-life example mentioned by an employer responding to a CareerBuilder survey. Resume “fails” like these can be instructive– and amusing, if you’re not the one making them!
Bizarre Resume Mistakes
Examples included a resume that …
… was written in Klingon language.
… listed the candidate’s objective as “To work for someone who is not an alcoholic with three DUI’s like my current employer.”
… included texting shortcuts (e.g., no capitalization and use of shortcuts like “u”).
… consisted of just one sentence: “Hire me, I’m awesome.”
… listed “leadership experience” consisting of the candidate’s online video gaming experience leading warrior clans.
… failed to include the candidate’s name.
… included pictures of the candidate from baby photos to adulthood.
… was a music video.
But aren’t some of these resumes creative in a way that could actually work? It depends on the circumstances, and we’ve all heard examples of someone getting a job through unconventional techniques. Far more often, however, these gimmicks make the candidate look flaky and lacking in good judgment.
Now, some more common mistakes – are you making any of these blunders?
The employers also identified some of the most common resume problems that are likely to disqualify a candidate. These include resumes that …
… contain typos because the writer didn’t know how to proofread a resume properly.
… are generic rather than targeted to the position.
… have an inappropriate email address.
… are printed on decorative paper.
… include a photo.
They also indicated that many resumes are too short. In one survey, 77% of employers stated they would prefer to see a two-page resume if the applicant has plenty of experience.
Other resumes did not provide specific job dates. It’s virtually a “must” to include the years, at least for your more recent jobs. Omitting them can result in the resume not being considered at all. You have more leeway about whether to include the months.
To prevent resume bloopers and put your best foot forward, here are some great resume tips.
