By MAX MESSMER
Scripps Howard News Service
RESUME: "Thinking of hiring someone? I'll do it for less."
A fierce negotiator.
COVER LETTER: "I can work for less money than most because work is more of a hobby than my career."
Call us when you get serious about your career.
Unlike the previous job candidates, don't note how cheaply you're willing to work. Instead, highlight your most relevant skills and experience and how, with these qualifications, you can make an immediate and positive contribution to the business. After all, you don't want to put yourself in the proverbial bargain bin.
Unless an employer specifically requests your salary requirements, there's no advantage to including that information in your application materials. Mentioning money right off the bat could be viewed as an etiquette faux pas.
COVER LETTER: "I will be the best hire you will ever make! E-mail me, and let's talk. P.S. I need $65,000 per year with full benefits."
Duly noted.
I often point out that proofreading your documents for grammatical errors is critical. But in addition to correcting typos and spelling errors, job seekers should also eliminate extraneous information that has little (or nothing) to do with their work-related abilities and interests.
"ABOUT ME: I don't like dirt or grime in any form."
She needs to clean up her resume.
"PERSONAL: I do sing in the shower, usually Johnny Cash tunes. He's the best."
This job hunter walks the line.
RESUME: "My favorite color? Any shade of pink."
No need for the color commentary.
Finally, don't forget about the importance of proper punctuation. If you must use an exclamation point to get your idea across, just one will suffice.
"OTHER: I love coffee!!!"
Have you considered decaf?
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.
