By MAX MESSMER
Scripps Howard News Service
COVER LETTER: "I have sent out my resume to hundreds of companies and not one bite. I am getting desprate."
Help your cause by proofreading your resume.
Many people are under the impression that finding a job is strictly a numbers game. They fire off the same version of their resume to countless companies, regardless of whether the open positions are a suitable fit. You're far better off customizing your resume to each opportunity. You don't need to rewrite your resume from scratch, but you should highlight different skills or achievements based on what is most relevant to that specific job and employer.
RESUME: "If you have any halfway-decent jobs, please call me."
Are you interested in great jobs or only mediocre ones?
OBJECTIVE: "I need a job pleaseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee."
We'll give you an E for effort.
SKILLS: "I can do any job. I have done everything from milking cows to changing tires to doing DNA analysis in a forensic biology laboratory to remodeling an entire house."
A true Renaissance man.
OBJECTIVE: "I am seeking an admin/executive assistant/receptionist/office manager/coordinator/gofer/clerk/whatever-the-heck-you-want-to-call-it position."
An administrative professional and so much more.
SKILLS: "Not too many social skills, but I have other skills to make up for it."
Such as?
Finally, always run spell-check and proofread your application materials. After all, if you submit a resume or cover letter with typos, hiring managers will wonder what kinds of mistakes you'd make on the job.
SKILLS: "Strong data entery."
Are you sure about that?
REFERENCES: "I have references apron your request."
Send those references, and let's get cooking!
OBJECTIVE: "IT professional. I can fix your CPs."
But who will fix our PCs?
For more Resumania, and to submit samples you've come across, visit http://www.resumania.com/. Keep the Resumania coming. 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 Robert Half International, a specialized staffing firm, and author of Managing Your Career For Dummies(r) and Job Hunting For Dummies(r), 2nd Edition. His most recent book is Human Resources Kit For Dummies(r), 2nd Edition.
