Resume Red Flags: Phrases That Make Hiring Managers Hit Delete
In today’s competitive job market, your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer. It needs to effectively showcase your skills and experience in order to grab the attention of hiring managers. However, there are certain phrases and words that can turn off recruiters and cause them to hit delete on your application. These resume red flags can prevent you from getting your foot in the door, so it’s important to know what they are and how to avoid them. Let’s take a closer look at the most common phrases that make hiring managers hit delete.
The Problem with Buzzwords
When crafting your resume, it can be tempting to use buzzwords and industry jargon in order to stand out. However, these types of phrases can actually have a negative impact on your application. Buzzwords may seem impressive at first glance, but they often lack substance and can come across as generic. Hiring managers are looking for concrete examples of your accomplishments, not just flashy language. Phrases like “detail-oriented”, “innovative”, and “results-driven” are overused and do little to differentiate you from other candidates.
Avoid Clichés
Clichés are another common red flag that can turn off hiring managers. These are tired phrases that have been used so many times that they have lost their impact. For example, saying “team player” or “strong work ethic” may seem like positive attributes, but they are too vague to hold any real weight. Employers want to see how you have demonstrated these qualities, rather than just take your word for it. Instead of relying on clichés, provide specific examples that showcase your skills and abilities.
Starting with “Responsible for…”
One of the biggest mistakes job seekers make on their resume is starting bullet points with “responsible for…”. This phrase can make your accomplishments sound like tasks anyone could do, rather than highlighting your unique contributions. It also puts the focus on your job responsibilities, rather than your accomplishments. Instead, start with strong action verbs and highlight specific achievements. This shows hiring managers what you have done in your previous roles and how you have added value to your employers.
Avoid Negative Phrases
No matter how frustrated you may feel with your past job experiences, your resume is not the place to air any grievances. Negative phrases like “disliked my boss” or “hated my job” will only make hiring managers question your attitude and professionalism. Even if you left a job on bad terms, refrain from including any negative language on your resume. Focus on the positive aspects of your experience and how you were able to overcome challenges and grow.
Be Honest About Your Skills
Another common resume red flag is embellishing or exaggerating your skills and experience. While it’s important to showcase your strengths, it’s also important to be honest about what you can do. Falsely claiming expertise in a certain skill or exaggerating your level of experience can backfire if you are hired and are unable to deliver. It’s better to be upfront about any areas where you may need to improve and focus on highlighting your genuine strengths.
Proofread, Proofread, Proofread
Finally, nothing will make a hiring manager hit delete faster than a resume with spelling and grammar mistakes. Make sure to thoroughly proofread your resume for any errors or typos. It’s also a good idea to have someone else look it over as well, as they may catch mistakes that you have overlooked. A well-written and error-free resume shows attention to detail and strong communication skills, both of which are highly valued by employers.
In conclusion, your resume is your first chance to make a good impression on a potential employer. Avoiding these common resume red flags can help you stand out in a positive way and increase your chances of landing an interview. Remember to be specific, honest, and professional in your language and always proofread your resume before submitting it. By taking the time to craft a strong and effective resume, you can catch the attention of hiring managers and move one step closer to landing your dream job.
