CK Tan is the owner of JobAsiaSearch.com, a web site dedicated to assisting job seekers secure a job in Asia. If you need help in your Asia job search or looking for a job opening in Asia, visit http://www.jobasiasearch.com
Employers know what they are looking for in a resume. If they see a resume mistake in any one of the resumes they are reviewing for a position, that resume will likely get filed in the "do not follow up" pile. If you want to be noticed, you need to make sure that your resume does not contain any errors that will irritate employers.
One thing that stands out is gaps in employment history. If you do not show why there is a gap between employment entries, it looks like you’re trying to hide something. Often, all that is needed is a simple explanation. If you were attending school or having a baby, state so. This doesn't always have to be stated on the resume. You can include this information in your cover letter.
Another thing that turns employers off is typos and grammatical errors. Always spell check your resume. Have someone else look over it. You may not see a resume mistake, but someone else may be able to spot it quickly.
Avoid including too much information about what you do with your free time. Clubs and organizations are fine to include as long as they relate to the type of job you are applying for. If the information does not relate to the position, leave it out. An employer does not care what you do in your personal life.
Photos and personal profiles should not be used unless you're an actor or model. Most managers do not want to know what potential candidates look like. They only want to know the facts. Discrimination complaints are rampant, and employers do not want to be accused of choosing an applicant based on their looks, gender or race.
Complicated and elaborate fonts do not make your resume stand out positively. Artsy resumes often get thrown in the trash. They are a nuisance to read and they are distracting. They also give the impression that you are not professional. Always stick to standard text and resume paper.
Another resume mistake that job candidates make is to not update their resume before they forward it. School activities may be important when you graduate from high school, but they look ridiculous on your resume when you are 35. Technology and skill sets change as well. Do not include skills that are not needed in today's workplace. For example: Word processors have been replaced by computers and software.
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