At a recent job fair, Revision Resume took to the opportunity to check in with a few different hiring managers. We wanted to gain feedback on what they are looking for when they review resumes.
While some initially struggled with this question, they had no trouble telling us things they wish job seekers didn't do. Here are 5 of their top complaints:
1) Hiring Managers Don't Like Resumes that are Over 2 Pages
Multiple hiring managers told us they would prefer job seekers keep their resumes to 1 or 2 pages. Those that go beyond 2 pages are not optimizing the content, and it is just too lengthy to review.
Are you having trouble keeping your resume to a 2 page limit? Consider the following options:
Reduce your work experience to only the last 10-15 years. Hiring managers tell us they don't want to go further back than that anyway.
Adjust your font to 10 point and reduce your margins to 0.5 inches.
Are you using multiple lines for your contact information? Condense. Are you using multiple lines to give previous employment information (such as job title, employer name, and dates of employment). Condense.
Consider if everything you have listed on your resume is really relevant. Eliminate anything that doesn't show you are qualified for the role you are seeking.
Combine related sections like Education and Certifications into 1.
2) Hiring Managers Don't Like a Poor Choice of Font on the Resume
Look closely at your font. Can you tell the difference between the lower case letter l and the number 1? If not, neither can the hiring manager. If either of those characters are in your email address, the hiring manager may not record it correctly...and, that means they may not be able to contact you. Choose a font that is clear, such as Calibri or Times New Roman.
3) Hiring Managers Don't Like Resumes that are Difficult to Read
A hiring manager may have hundreds of resumes to look at. You want yours to be easy to read. Take a look at your formatting, and utilize spacing, bolding, and bullets to make the resume flow. Don't cram too much on the page. Instead, incorporate white space so it is appealing to the eye.
4) Hiring Managers Don't Like Resumes that Aren't Descriptive
Hiring managers consistently tell us that they are frustrated when reading resumes that aren't descriptive. When they review your resume, they want to know what you did and how you did it. When writing your bullets, be sure to think through your actions and results. Try to incorporate metrics to give scope. If your resume reads as a list of job responsibilities, you should reword your bullets to give a more detailed description of your achievements.
5) Hiring Managers Don't Like Resumes that Implement Unprofessional Wording
Some job seekers try to use informal language or phrases to stand out. Unfortunately, they miss the mark. Instead of standing out in a positive way, they stand out as being unprofessional.
You only have 1 chance to make a good impression and get called for an interview. Resumes are professional documents, and therefore should not include any statements that may be memorable for the wrong reasons. Check the tone throughout your resume to ensure it puts you in the best light.
Final Thoughts
Avoid frustrating a hiring manager with one of their pet peeves. Have Revision Resume review your resume to ensure it will be memorable in a positive way! We offer thorough and at-a-glance resume critiques that will identify any of these frustrations (and more) so you can adjust your resume accordingly. Submit a document that you can be proud of. Contact us today!
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