Resume Roadblocks
In economic times such as these even the most stellar resume, polished with a strong track record of experience, skills, and ability can produce less than stellar job prospects. So where does that leave job seekers who have obstacles to overcome from the beginning? Without being aware of what these obstacles are and how to tackle them, you decrease your chances of scoring an interview.
Below are some examples of problem areas to be aware of and suggestions on how to down play them on your resume.
Job-Hopping: If you have had multiple roles in which your tenure has been short (1-2 yrs or less in each position) this will send up red flags with the resume reviewer. In the land of talent selection, job-hopping leads employers to believe that the candidate cannot keep a steady job for multiple possible reasons—easily disinterested, attendance problems, poor performance, etc.
If you have had one or more roles that have lasted less than a year, consider omitting them if it does not leave large gaps. Another suggestion is to provide a “reason for leaving”; especially if the reason was out of your control. For instance, if you were laid off due to a merger, provide that information. By providing a reason you eliminate the opportunity for the employer to make up their own assumption as to why you left. Finally, if you left on good terms ask for letters of reference to accompany your resume. A good letter of reference can really help deter red flags.
Terminated for cause in your last role: If you were fired for poor performance or some other issue, you may feel like landing an interview is an almost impossible goal. Instead of focusing on the negative, highlight the positives. After listing your tasks/responsibilities in bullet form, think about adding short successes like “named team lead on the data integration project.”
Also think about adding additional skills that you picked up in this role. Mention something like “training included relationship sales.” You do not have to mention that you were not successful in your sales performance.
No college degree: If you do not have a college degree you may feel as though are at a disadvantage when going up against those that do have a degree. Just keep in mind that experience counts for a lot. In your resume highlight the skills and experience that the potential employer would find appealing. These suggestions will hopefully help you to land the interview. During the interview you will most likely be questioned about potential problems, so be ready with good answers. Practice what you will say ahead of time and do not come across as defensive when asked.
October 9th, 2009 at 2:07 pm
Many good points, however, in this new age, experience is not always good; and especially if you are over 50.
Many resumes, no matter how good or bad, are pulled once the screener realizes that you won’t fit into their social clubs … they are not interested in hiring their moms or dads.
Lots of experience indicates age … and in many cases these days, you are better qualified than the hiring manager. They are not interested in hiring their next replacement … unless they are on the fast track.
Those of us over 50 are limited to “Contract” opportunities, which have no futures or security. I watch companies hire inexperienced people every day that have “0″ experience … while expecting those of us over 50 who aren’t qualified for F/T hire to train these young folks.
Age discrimination in the US is running out of control … and no one is looking (or even cares). And most of the over 50’s don’t have resumes full of less than 2 year hitches … we grew up in a different era, and understand the meaning of loyalty.
October 11th, 2009 at 1:07 am
In general, I share the editor’s opinion, nevertheless what about the people who have to change their jobs frequently due to the project?..or due to the companies contract policy?
In some countries, the workers “have” to leave and change their jobs frequently. The companies contract them for short terms, without considering a long term relationship and after finishing their contract (in general 3 -6 months,better a year), sometimes it is extended for a similar term, but many other times the worker needs to find out another job option, obviously in a different company. The result ….. many roles in a short time….
…so what is happening?. If high qualified workers exist (because they work hard, study and prepare by themselves constantly) , the companies must review their contract policies and their hiring processes.
October 12th, 2009 at 10:08 am
I agree with Jim C.
The Employers want someone under 40, with 50 years experience. If you really want the BIG BULLET that will kill all your chances to move to a good position somewhere, try being over 60. Everyone replies with “You are just to experienced.” I have herd this reason for dropping me out of the competition on five occasions after interviewing. Several of these same companies continued searching for the younger candidate. I know this because the Recruiters continue to call me and I discover that it’s for the same position that claimed I have to much experience. Frustration is to say the least.
I would like to move because the management at this position is the pits. I have just completed the Certified Manager achievement in our NMA organization, and have discovered that the management needs improvement. For example continuing to ignore corporate policies, and harrassing, and bird-dogging, and hiding over the wall and listening to work conversations and later negative commenting without hearing the other side, and never having good comments.
I know there are few people with my capabilities out there, as Recruiters have explained that the older Engineers with knowledge and experience are all retiring. I have much to contribute yet and wish to continue longer with my carreer, however, I may be forced to retire earlier than I really want.
November 16th, 2009 at 4:07 am
Hey really nice article and very nice site . your site is very useful. Thanks for the information.
November 16th, 2009 at 4:08 am
Hey really nice article and very nice site . your site is very useful. Thanks for the information.
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Regards
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Mumbai - India
June 10th, 2010 at 5:32 am
you are great. Am glad to know that my experience counts.i just have to keep applying for jobs of college degree even though i had none.my experience can make a way. please keep me