By MAX MESSMER
Scripps Howard News Service
A job seeker who submits the same generic resume to every company is unlikely to land an interview in today's competitive employment market. Put simply, half-hearted job-hunting efforts just won't cut it. Stand out from the crowd by thoroughly researching both the company and the open position, and then tailor your resume to that specific opportunity.
"OBJECTIVE: A job. Don't really care what the job consists of."
Really caring would help.
Instead of heralding their top skills and attributes, the following job candidates seemed to go out of their way to point out flaws or bring up reasons to question their professionalism:
"JOB HISTORY: My unimpressive work history includes clerical functions, data entry, call center work, retail management and sales."
She's her own worst critic.
COVER LETTER: "I'm an ideal candidate for the accounts payable position because in every environment I have successfully performed below company expectations."
Underpromising will get you nowhere.
"PERSONAL: I'm a bit of a free spirit and get very easily discouraged. Occasionally, I have problems finishing things I've started if they take too long."She is not exactly putting her best foot forward.
COVER LETTER: "Boredom is my fear, and, instead of facing it, I will up and leave in search of something more stimulating."
We'll try to keep things interesting.
Finally, this is one of the least persuasive cover letter conclusions I've ever read:
COVER LETTER: "I know I didn't give you any of my skills or a really good reason to offer me a job, but if you are interested in anything I could possibly offer, don't hesitate to contact me."I wouldn't wait by the phone if I were you.
((For more Resumania, visit www.resumania.com. Examples can be sent to Resumania, c/o Robert Half International, 2884 Sand Hill Road, Suite 200, Menlo Park, Calif. 94025, or faxed to 650.234.6998. Max Messmer is chairman and CEO of the specialized staffing firm Robert Half International and author of "Managing Your Career For Dummies" and "Job Hunting For Dummies," 2nd Edition.)
